What to do the moment a pipe bursts
- Shut off the main water valve. Know where it is before an emergency happens.
- Open a faucet at the lowest point of the home to help drain remaining water from the line.
- Switch off power to wet areas if you can do so safely.
- Move furniture, rugs and electronics away from the wet zone.
- Call us so an independent restoration company can begin extraction and drying right away.
Common causes of pipe and plumbing leaks
- Aging supply lines and corroded fittings, especially in older homes
- Failed flexible connectors under sinks, toilets and washing machines
- Water heater leaks and failed pressure relief valves
- High water pressure that stresses joints and fixtures
- Pinhole leaks in copper lines that spray inside walls or under slabs
- Freeze damage in the colder foothill areas during rare hard freezes
Hidden leaks and slab leaks
Not every pipe failure announces itself. A hot spot on the floor, the sound of running water when everything is off, a musty odor or paint bubbling on a wall can all point to a hidden leak. Restoration crews use moisture meters and thermal imaging to trace wet areas, and a licensed plumber may be needed to repair the pipe itself. Drying the structure and repairing the plumbing go hand in hand.
Burst pipe restoration steps
After the water is stopped, the crew extracts standing water, opens or removes wet drywall and baseboards where needed, sets drying equipment and monitors the readings until the structure is dry. Cleaning, deodorizing and repair coordination follow. Documentation of the loss is kept along the way so your insurance company has what it needs.
Please note: Emergency Water Damage Arcadia is a referral service, not a contractor. All restoration work is performed by independent companies licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB).
Frequently asked questions
Who fixes the pipe, the restoration company or a plumber?
A licensed plumber repairs or replaces the pipe. The restoration company handles water removal, drying and cleanup. Many companies can coordinate with a plumber on your behalf.
What if I cannot find the shutoff valve?
Check near the water meter at the street, along an exterior wall near the water heater, or in the garage. If you cannot stop the flow, call a plumber and us at the same time.
Will the walls have to be opened?
Sometimes. If water has entered wall cavities, a small section of drywall may be removed to dry the framing and insulation properly. Technicians confirm with moisture readings before deciding.