When a plumbing disaster strikes, quick action can minimise damage and stress. If you have a leak, burst pipe, or flooding in your property, contacting an emergency plumber in Brighton is the smartest first step. While waiting for professional help, there are several things homeowners can do to stay safe and protect their property. This guide outlines exactly what to do before your emergency plumber arrives, so that when they get to your home, they can act quickly and efficiently. For urgent assistance or to schedule service, you can also get in touch with our dedicated team.
Stay Calm and Prioritise Safety
Plumbing emergencies can cause panic, but staying calm is essential. Your safety and that of your household should come first. Avoid standing water if it’s close to electrics, and keep children or pets away from the affected areas. Turn off lights or switches in damp rooms if necessary, and wait for the plumber before taking further electrical actions.
Shut Off the Water Supply
If a pipe bursts or a major leak occurs, shutting off the water supply is usually the first and most important step. Locate your stopcock, typically found under the kitchen sink, in the bathroom, or near the front of your property, and turn it clockwise. By stopping the flow of water, you’ll prevent further flooding or water damage before the emergency plumber arrives.
What if You Can’t Find the Stopcock?
If your main valve isn’t easily located, trace your water pipes from the kitchen or utility area. In some cases, external stopcocks may be located near your property boundary. Make a note of where it is for future emergencies, it can save precious minutes.
Drain Remaining Water and Relieve Pressure
Once the main supply is off, open your cold water taps to relieve any leftover pressure in the pipes. This will help drain residual water from the system. Avoid using the hot water taps if your heating system is still active or if the emergency involves the boiler or radiators.
Switch Off the Heating System if Necessary
In the event of a burst pipe near the boiler or radiator system, switch off your central heating to prevent further complications. This step can stop water from circulating through damaged pipework and limit system pressure until your emergency plumber arrives.
Move Furniture and Protect Valuables
If water is spreading, take action to protect your belongings. Move furniture, electrical devices, and valuables away from the affected areas. Use towels, buckets, or even containers to collect dripping water. This proactive approach reduces costly damage and helps your plumber work in a safer, clearer space.
Document the Damage
Taking photos or videos of any visible damage before moving items can be beneficial. Your insurance provider may require evidence of the incident when processing a claim. Documenting the issue also helps your plumber assess what caused the emergency once they arrive.
Make the Plumber’s Job Easier
Before the plumber arrives, clear access to the affected areas. Whether it’s under the sink, behind the washing machine, or around water tanks, ensure the technician has enough space to work efficiently. Turning off garden taps or outside valves can also provide useful information about whether the main water line is compromised.
Understand Common Plumbing Emergencies
Knowing what to do before an emergency plumber arrives often depends on the type of problem. For example, a pipe burst may require immediate isolation of the main valve, whereas a sudden leak might need containment and inspection of specific fixtures.
For more insights into frequent household plumbing issues, check out our article on common emergency plumbing problems in Brighton homes. Awareness of these issues helps homeowners act more effectively in an emergency.
Prepare for Future Emergencies
Once your immediate plumbing issue is under control, take steps to prepare for the future. Find out where your main shutoff valves are, familiarise yourself with your pipe layout, and ensure your household knows how to respond quickly to leaks, clogs, or bursts. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent future emergencies altogether.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ready and Informed
Knowing what to do before an emergency plumber arrives can make a huge difference in how much damage is prevented and how smoothly the repair process goes. By shutting off the water, ensuring safety, and preparing the work area, homeowners in Brighton can support their plumber’s work and restore their property faster.
If you’re currently facing a plumbing emergency or simply want to prepare better for the future, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our responsive Brighton based team is ready to assist 24/7 with professional advice and reliable repair services.