Question 1

What should I do if a pipe bursts?

Accepted Answer

If a pipe bursts: immediately turn off the water supply at the stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink or where the mains pipe enters the property); turn off any electrical systems in affected areas and switch off at the consumer unit if water is near electrics; open all taps to drain the system and reduce flooding; collect water in buckets; then call an emergency plumber. Do not attempt to repair under-pressure pipework yourself.

Question 2

How do I turn off my water supply?

Accepted Answer

The main internal stopcock is typically located under the kitchen sink, in a utility room, or at the point where the mains pipe enters the building. It usually looks like a brass valve with a flat-head screw slot or a lever handle. Turn clockwise to close (off). It's important to know where yours is before an emergency — we recommend checking and testing it periodically as some can seize with age.

Question 3

Where is my stopcock and what if it won't turn?

Accepted Answer

The internal stopcock is most commonly found under the kitchen sink, in an airing cupboard, or in a hallway near the front door. If the stopcock won't turn (which is common in older properties), do not force it as this can cause it to break. Instead, contact your water supplier — there is an external stopcock in the pavement outside your property that they can close. A plumber can also replace a faulty internal stopcock.

Question 4

What should I do about a frozen pipe?

Accepted Answer

If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn off the water at the stopcock. Thaw the pipe gently using warm (not boiling) water in a cloth, a warm water bottle, or a hair dryer on a low setting — start from the tap end and work back towards the frozen section. Never use a naked flame or very high heat. Once thawed, check for leaks before reopening the water supply. Call a plumber if you cannot safely access or thaw the pipe.

Question 5

There's water leaking from or near my boiler — what should I do?

Accepted Answer

A water leak from a boiler should be taken seriously. Turn off the boiler and, if the leak is significant, turn off the water supply at the stopcock. Do not use the boiler until it has been inspected. Small drips from a pressure relief valve pipe are often a symptom of high pressure or a failed expansion vessel. Any water near electrical components is a hazard — call a Gas Safe engineer promptly.

Question 6

What is water hammer and should I be concerned?

Accepted Answer

Water hammer is a loud banging or thudding sound in pipes, caused by the sudden stop of flowing water (for example when a valve or tap is closed quickly). It can also be caused by loose pipework vibrating. While water hammer itself is not usually a sign of imminent failure, it can cause stress on pipe joints and fittings over time. A plumber can investigate and fit hammer arrestors or re-secure loose pipework.

Question 7

When should I attempt a plumbing repair myself versus calling a professional?

Accepted Answer

Homeowners can safely carry out some minor tasks: replacing tap washers, bleeding radiators, descaling showerheads, and repressurising the boiler. You should always call a professional for: any work involving gas pipes; frozen or burst pipes in walls or under floors; anything involving the mains supply entry point; leaks involving heating system components; and any work requiring notification under Building Regulations. When in doubt, call us.

Question 8

Can a small drip under the sink wait, or should it be fixed urgently?

Accepted Answer

A slow drip under a sink should not be left indefinitely — even a slow drip can cause significant water damage, mould growth, and structural issues if left for weeks or months. However, it rarely constitutes an emergency. If you can place a container under the drip and monitor it safely, it's fine to book a non-urgent appointment. If the drip is worsening or you cannot contain it, call us promptly.

Emergency Plumbing FAQs