Burst Pipe: Who to Call First (Emergency Call Order)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who do I call for a burst pipe?

Call both a plumber AND a water damage restoration company -- but start with the restoration company if water has already spread beyond the pipe area. Here is the logic: a plumber stops the water source; a restoration company stops the damage. If water is actively spraying from the pipe, shut off your main water supply first (this is something you can do yourself in 60 seconds), then call the restoration company. They will often coordinate a plumber or can identify the source themselves. Every minute of active flooding adds to structural damage -- do not wait on hold with a plumber while water spreads into walls.

Should I call a plumber or water damage company first for a burst pipe?

Call the water damage restoration company first -- but shut off the main water supply immediately before making any calls. The main shutoff (near your water meter or where the supply line enters the house) stops active flow in under 60 seconds. Once water is stopped, the restoration company is your first call: they dispatch 24/7, handle the drying and documentation your insurance needs, and can coordinate a plumber if the source needs professional repair. Calling the plumber first while water continues to flow costs you additional damage time.

What should I do immediately when a pipe bursts?

In order: (1) Shut off the main water supply valve -- clockwise to close. Do this before any other step. (2) Turn off electricity to flooded areas at the breaker panel -- water and live outlets are dangerous. (3) Call a 24/7 IICRC-certified water damage restoration company. (4) Document everything with video before cleanup starts -- this is your insurance claim. (5) Call your homeowners insurer to open a claim. Do not delay -- most policies require prompt notice. Burst pipe damage from a sudden failure is covered under standard HO-3 policies.

Does homeowners insurance cover burst pipe water damage?

Yes -- sudden burst pipe water damage is covered under virtually all standard HO-3 homeowners policies. The key word is 'sudden.' If an adjuster can show the pipe had a slow leak for weeks or months that you ignored, coverage may be disputed. Document the failure as sudden (intact pipe that failed suddenly, not a slow drip), keep the failed pipe section as physical evidence, and call your insurer within 24 hours. The plumber's invoice showing sudden failure is important documentation.

How much does burst pipe water damage restoration cost?

Burst pipe restoration typically costs $1,200--$8,000 depending on pipe location, how long water ran before discovery, and what materials were affected. A pipe that burst overnight in a finished basement costs more than one caught in minutes on an unfinished concrete floor. Plumbing repair adds $200--$1,500 on top of restoration. Most homeowners insurance covers restoration costs (minus your deductible) for sudden burst pipe events.