Plain answers for every water damage question
A burst pipe, a leaking water heater, a wet basement or a stained ceiling. Find out what to do first, what caused it, how to dry it out and what it may cost, in plain words with sources you can check.
Water emergency right now?
- Stay safe. If water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel, do not walk in it. Turn power off only if you can reach the breaker from a dry spot.
- Stop the water. Close the main shutoff valve, usually where the water line enters the house or near the water meter.
- Take photos of the water and damage before you move things, for your insurance claim.
- Start drying fast. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, according to the U.S. EPA.
Emergency guides
- What Should I Do If a Pipe Bursts in My Wall?
- What to Do Immediately When a Pipe Bursts Under the Sink
- Why Is Water Dripping Down Your Wall?
- What Happens When a Burst Pipe Causes Water Damage?
- How to Fix a Broken Pipe Under the House
- What to Do When a Water Pipe Bursts Outside
Latest articles
Why Is Water Dripping Down Your Wall?Water dripping down a wall signals a roof leak, burst pipe, or window failure. Learn what causes it, how to find the source, and when to call a professional.
What to Do Immediately When a Pipe Bursts Under the SinkWhen a pipe bursts under the sink, shut off the angle stop valve within 5 minutes, open a faucet, then dry the cabinet within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold.
What Should I Do If a Pipe Bursts in My Wall?A pipe burst inside your wall? Here's how to shut off water, find the leak, avoid cutting drywall, and prevent mold in the critical first hour.
What to Do When a Water Pipe Bursts OutsideIf a pipe bursts outside, shut off the outdoor valve and call a plumber. Learn to find your shutoff, check who pays for repair, and limit water damage.
How to Fix a Broken Pipe Under the HouseLearn how to fix a broken pipe under your house: shut off the water, find the break, choose the right fix for PEX, PVC or copper, then dry the area fast.
What Happens When a Burst Pipe Causes Water Damage?Burst pipe water damage releases 6 to 40 gallons a minute. See the mold, structural damage, and odor timeline, plus restoration costs and insurance facts.
What to Do Immediately When Your Water Main Is LeakingIf your water main is leaking, shut off the main shutoff valve now, call the city or a licensed plumber, and dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours to stop mold.
What to Do Immediately When a Frozen Pipe BurstsA frozen pipe burst? Shut off the main valve, remove standing water, and call a restoration company. Repair averages $500; mold risk starts in 24 to 48 hours.
What Causes a Black Water Pipe?A black water pipe usually means corroded metal, minerals, or biofilm, not contamination. Learn what causes it, if it's dangerous, and when to call a plumber.
What to Do When Your Water Meter Is LeakingWater meter leaking? Learn who is responsible, how to spot it, what repairs cost, if insurance covers it, and the steps to take now, city side or your side.
How to Fix a Water Pipe Inside a WallFix a water pipe in a wall: cut the drywall safely, repair the break with a fitting or epoxy, then patch and dry the wall. When to call a pro instead.
Hearing Water Dripping Behind Your Wall: What It Means and What to DoHearing water dripping behind a wall usually means a leak. Mold can start in 24 to 48 hours. Learn to find the source and know when to call a plumber.
Browse by topic
- Burst Pipe & Plumbing Leaks
Burst, frozen and leaking pipes: what to do, what causes them and what repairs cost.
- Water Heater & Boiler Leaks
Leaking water heaters and boilers: find the source, judge the danger and decide repair or replace.
- Water Damage Restoration
How water damage restoration works, how long it takes and how to choose a company.