A burst water pipe is the last thing anyone wants to deal with - but unfortunately, it can happen.
The key to bouncing back quickly, is knowing what to do next. If you’ve found yourself ankle-deep in water, don't panic! We've got you covered with expert advice on how to effectively dry out your home and minimise the damage, before you make an insurance claim.
Safety First: Cut Off the Water and Power
Before you start splashing through puddles in a panic, turn off the water supply to stop the flooding. Locate your stop tap —usually found under the kitchen sink, in a utility room, or near the front door and shut it off immediately.
Next, cut off the power to the affected area. Water and electricity are a dangerous duo, so head to your consumer unit or fuse board and flip the switch to turn off the supply to the affected zones. This will help prevent any nasty electrical shocks or fire hazards while you're dealing with the water damage.
Document the Damage for Your Insurance Claim
Take photos and videos of the damage. Document everything thoroughly—this will be crucial when you make an insurance claim. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, our team are on hand to offer advice.
Get Rid of the Standing Water
Now that the water's no longer gushing, it's time to get rid of what’s left behind – starting from the top, whether that be your attic or top floor. Grab a mop, a bucket, and as many towels as you can find. If the flood is more serious, you may need a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the water. The quicker you remove standing water, the better—you'll reduce the chances of mould taking up residence in your home.
For significant flooding, consider renting a pump to help drain the water faster. You can typically find these at tool hire stores - they can save you a lot of time and effort.
Ventilation Is Your Best Friend
Once the main bulk of the water is gone, it’s time to dry out your space. Open all the windows and doors to promote natural airflow. If you have a dehumidifier, now’s the perfect time to use it. The goal is to remove as much moisture from the air as possible.
If it’s humid outside, keep the windows closed and rely more on fans and the dehumidifier. You don't want to bring more moisture into the house when you're trying to get rid of it!
Move and Assess Your Belongings
Carefully move your furniture, rugs, and other items to a dry area. This will prevent further damage and give you a clear space to work in. As you move items, assess the damage. Unfortunately, some things have been soaked and can’t be dried quickly enough to prevent mould – but keep hold of them until your insurance companies’ representatives have had an opportunity to assess them. In the meantime, it’s best to keep the items in a garage our outbuilding. We know how upsetting this can be, especially when it comes to sentimental items.
Check for Hidden Water Damage
Water has a sneaky way of getting into places you might not immediately notice. Check behind walls, under floors, and in any crawl spaces or insulation. You may need to remove baseboards or sections of drywall to see where the water’s travelled.
If you're not confident doing this yourself, it’s wise to call in a professional who can accurately assess the damage – like us!
Act Quickly to Prevent Mold
Mould can start to grow within 24-48 hours of water exposure, so it’s crucial to keep the drying process moving. Keep the fans and dehumidifiers running and monitor the humidity levels.
If you suspect mould growth, don’t wait—call in experts immediately to assess situation. Mold isn’t just ugly; it can also pose serious health risks. Discover our Mould Surveys at Action Insurance Repair.
Call in the Professionals
Finally, call in the pros. A burst pipe can cause extensive damage, and while DIY methods can help mitigate the situation, a professional evaluation makes sure every potential issue is identified – before you make a water damage insurance claim. Find out how we’ve helped our clients restore their homes after water damage.
Dealing with a burst pipe is never fun, but with quick action and the right steps, you can minimise damage and restore your home back to its normal self, quicker and with less hassle.
Has your property been affected by an escape of water? Get in touch with us via our 24/7 helpline by calling 01254 665 333 today to find out how we can help you.