What do I do if a pipe bursts?

Turn off the mains water supply immediately. Turn on all cold taps to drain the system. If water is near electricity, switch off at the consumer unit. Call a plumber as a matter of urgency. Take photos for insurance purposes.

Can I fix a leaking pipe myself?

Minor leaks on accessible pipes can be fixed DIY using push-fit fittings or pipe repair tape. Any leak inside a wall, ceiling, or floor, or involving corroded pipework, should be handled by a professional plumber.

How much does it cost to fix a leaking pipe?

A simple pipe repair costs £100–£200 for a plumber. Hidden leaks requiring access through walls or floors cost significantly more — £300–£600+ depending on the extent of the work required.

Does home insurance cover leaking pipes?

Most buildings insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage from burst pipes. Gradual leaks or leaks caused by lack of maintenance are typically not covered. Contact your insurer promptly after discovering a leak and document the damage with photos.

How do I find a hidden water leak?

Signs of a hidden leak include unexplained increases in your water bill, damp patches on walls or ceilings, mould growth without obvious cause, soft or discoloured flooring, or the sound of running water when all taps are off. A plumber can use leak detection equipment to locate hidden leaks.

How to Fix a Leaking Pipe — UK Emergency & DIY Guide

In This Guide

Step 1 — Act Immediately Step 2 — Minimise Damage Temporary Repair — Pipe Repair Tape Temporary Repair — Pipe Clamp Permanent Repair — When to Replace Pipe Types of Pipe Joints

Step 1 — Act Immediately

The moment you discover a leaking pipe, turn off the water supply to that pipe at the nearest isolation valve, or turn off the mains stopcock if you can't locate an isolation valve. The mains stopcock is usually under the kitchen sink, in an airing cupboard, or near the water meter.

Step 2 — Minimise Damage

Place towels and containers to catch dripping water. Move furniture and valuables away from the affected area. If water is near electrical fittings or the consumer unit, turn off the electricity at the fuse box immediately.

Temporary Repair — Pipe Repair Tape

For a temporary fix on a minor leak from a straight section of pipe, self-fusing silicone tape or pipe repair tape (available from DIY stores) can provide a short-term seal. Dry the pipe thoroughly, wrap the tape tightly overlapping each layer, extending 5cm beyond each side of the leak.

Temporary Repair — Pipe Clamp

A pipe repair clamp (available from plumbers' merchants and DIY stores for £5–£15) provides a more secure temporary fix. Place the rubber pad over the leak site and tighten the clamp around the pipe. This can hold for weeks while you arrange a permanent repair.

Permanent Repair — When to Replace Pipe

Temporary fixes are exactly that — temporary. Corroded, damaged, or repeatedly failing pipes need permanent replacement. Copper pipe sections can be replaced with compression or push-fit fittings without soldering. Plastic push-fit fittings are the easiest DIY option.

Types of Pipe Joints

Compression fittings use a nut and olive to create a watertight seal — tighten with a spanner, no heat needed. Push-fit fittings (like Speedfit or JG) simply push onto the pipe and lock — the easiest option for DIY. Soldered fittings provide the strongest joint but require a blowtorch and experience.

When to Call a Plumber Immediately

Call a plumber immediately if: the leak is large or fast-flowing, you can't locate or turn off the isolation valve, the leak is near electrical wiring, the pipe is corroded extensively, or the leak is inside a wall or ceiling.

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How to Fix a Leaking Pipe