What Should I Do If My Home Floods from a Pipe Burst?

Bang It Services
Feb 19
8 min read

Updated: Mar 12

What should I do if my home floods from a pipe burst?

Water damage from a burst pipe can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. One moment, everything is normal; the next, water is gushing through your home, soaking carpets, furniture, and walls. Whether due to freezing temperatures, old plumbing, or unexpected pressure surges, burst pipes can cause extensive damage within minutes.

If your home floods from a pipe burst, quick action is critical to minimizing water damage and preventing long-term problems like mold, structural weakening, and electrical hazards. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take immediately after discovering a pipe burst in your home.

Turn Off the Water Supply Immediately

The first and most crucial step is to stop the water flow at the source. Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve—typically found in basements, crawl spaces, utility rooms, or outside near the street. Turning it off will prevent additional water from flooding your home.

If you don’t know where your shut-off valve is, take this as a learning moment. Every homeowner should familiarize themselves with its location to avoid costly delays in an emergency.

Shut Off the Electricity

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel, turn off the power at the main electrical panel to prevent the risk of electrocution or fires.

⚠ Safety Tip: If you need to walk through standing water to access the breaker box, do not proceed. Instead, call an electrician or emergency services for assistance.

Assess the Damage and Identify the Leak

Once the water supply is off and it’s safe to do so, locate the burst pipe. Common areas where pipes burst include:

Near exterior walls during cold weather
Under sinks
In basements or crawl spaces
Inside walls and ceilings

Some leaks may be hidden behind drywall, only noticeable by wet spots, peeling paint, or bubbling plaster.

If you find the broken pipe, take pictures of the damage for insurance claims before attempting any repairs.

Call a Professional Plumber

While minor leaks can sometimes be patched temporarily, a burst pipe requires professional repair. Contact a licensed plumber to assess the damage and replace or repair the broken section of the pipe.

If you must wait for professional help, use temporary solutions like:

✔ Pipe clamps – Tighten around the burst area to slow the leak

✔ Rubber patches – Secure over the hole with waterproof tape

✔ Epoxy putty – Can temporarily seal cracks in pipes

These are not permanent fixes, but they can help reduce further flooding until the plumber arrives.

Remove Standing Water Immediately

Water removal should begin as soon as possible to minimize the risk of extensive damage to your home’s structure and belongings. The longer water remains, the higher the likelihood of mold growth, wood rot, and structural instability. Depending on the amount of flooding, different tools and techniques can be used:

Wet/dry vacuums – These are effective for minor flooding, such as small puddles on hard surfaces. They work best on tile, hardwood, and concrete floors, but should be used cautiously on carpets to prevent further saturation.
Mops and towels – Ideal for small-scale water accumulation. Use absorbent towels and microfiber cloths to soak up excess moisture on floors and walls.
Pumps – Essential for areas with more than a few inches of standing water. Submersible pumps can be used to quickly remove large volumes of water, directing it away from your home through a drainage system.
Professional water extraction services – If the flooding is severe or affects multiple rooms, hiring professionals ensures thorough water removal. They use industrial-grade extractors, dehumidifiers, and air movers to speed up the process.

⚠ Important:If floodwater contains sewage, chemicals, or other contaminants, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Contact a water damage restoration company to handle the cleanup safely.

Time Sensitivity:

Within the first hour – Stop the water source, begin water extraction, and remove as much moisture as possible.
Within 24 hours – Remove furniture, carpets, and items to prevent mold formation.
After 48 hours – If water is still present, mold growth and severe structural damage become likely, requiring professional remediation.

Our team is fully insured and hear to help you. For emergency services call (832) 979-6429

Dry Out the Affected Area

Once standing water is removed, drying out your home is crucial to prevent lingering moisture from damaging floors, walls, and furniture. This step requires a combination of natural ventilation and mechanical drying methods.

✔ Use fans and dehumidifiers – Place high-powered fans around the affected area to increase airflow. Use dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air, particularly in enclosed spaces like basements and attics.

✔ Open windows and doors – If outdoor humidity levels are low, allow fresh air to circulate through the home to accelerate drying. In hot, humid climates, using air conditioning may be more effective.

✔ Lift carpets and rugs – Carpet padding acts like a sponge, trapping water and promoting mold growth. If possible, remove carpets and allow them to dry outdoors or use carpet dryers to speed up the process.✔ Remove wet furniture and belongings – Upholstered furniture, wooden pieces, and personal items should be placed in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew. Metal furniture should be dried immediately to prevent rusting.

Additional Steps for Walls & Flooring:

Drywall: If walls are saturated, they may need to be partially or fully removed. Cut out and replace drywall that is too wet to salvage.
Baseboards & Trim: Remove these to allow walls to breathe and facilitate drying behind them.
Drill small holes – If walls feel damp, drilling holes near the baseboard line allows trapped moisture to escape.
Hardwood Floors: Use wood floor drying mats or specialized equipment to prevent warping and buckling.

When to Call a Professional

If moisture levels remain high after 48 hours.
If you notice musty odors, indicating mold growth.
If walls, ceilings, or floors are beginning to show signs of structural damage.

If you find yourself saying yes to any of these it is time to all a professional. We have been helping homeowners like you throughout the Houston area for over 10 years. Contact our office and speak to a specialist by filling out our contact form!

Check for Structural Damage

Water damage can weaken the integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs if left unaddressed. It’s important to thoroughly inspect the structure of your home, particularly in areas that were submerged or heavily saturated.

Signs of Structural Damage to Look For:

Sagging drywall – If ceilings or walls begin to sag or bulge, the material has absorbed excess water and is at risk of collapsing.
Soft or warped flooring – Water can cause wood, laminate, and vinyl floors to warp. If the floor feels spongy or uneven, it may need to be replaced.
Cracks in the foundation – Flooding can erode soil beneath your home, causing foundation shifting. Check for new or expanding cracks in walls and floors.
Loose or weakened beams – If wooden beams or structural supports appear swollen or weakened, the home’s framework could be compromised.

Hidden Damage Warning: Not all damage is visible right away. Weeks or months later, you may notice:

Persistent damp smells (indicating trapped moisture).
Peeling paint or wallpaper (a sign of water behind walls).
Doors and windows that no longer close properly (suggesting foundation shifting).

If you suspect structural damage, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Instead, hire a licensed contractor or restoration specialist to assess the extent of the damage and perform necessary repairs.

Next Steps for Severe Damage

Structural engineers – Needed if the foundation or framing integrity is in question.
Mold remediation experts – Required if mold is detected.
Insurance adjusters – Can evaluate repair costs and potential coverage.

By addressing water damage quickly and thoroughly, you can prevent more extensive repairs down the road and ensure your home remains safe and livable.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover water damage from burst pipes but may exclude damage from neglected maintenance. Call your insurer as soon as possible to:

File a claim – Provide photos and a description of the damage
Schedule an adjuster visit – They’ll assess the damage and estimate coverage
Get approval for repairs – Ensure coverage before starting major work

Be prepared with detailed documentation, including receipts for emergency repairs and restoration services.

Repair and Restore Your Home

Once the water is removed and the damage is assessed, the restoration process begins. This phase is critical in ensuring your home is safe, structurally sound, and fully livable again. Depending on the severity of the water damage, restoration may involve minor repairs or complete reconstruction.

Key Restoration Steps After Water Damage

Replacing drywall and insulation – Water-damaged drywall can lead to mold growth and structural weakening. Any saturated sections should be removed and replaced. Insulation should also be checked for moisture, as wet insulation loses effectiveness and can contribute to mold problems. Installing mold-resistant drywall and insulation is a good long-term investment.
Refinishing or replacing floors – Water damage affects different flooring materials in various ways. Hardwood floors may require sanding, refinishing, or replacement if warping occurs. Carpeting should be removed and replaced if it has been wet for more than 48 hours. Tile and vinyl flooring should be inspected for hidden water damage underneath, which could lead to mold growth.
Repainting walls and restoring ceilings – Once drywall repairs are completed, a fresh coat of mold-resistant primer and paint will help prevent future moisture issues. If ceilings have water stains or sagging sections, they should be reinforced or replaced as needed.
Cleaning, sanitizing, and restoring furniture and belongings – Water-damaged furniture, rugs, and personal belongings should be assessed for salvageability. Upholstered furniture and mattresses may need to be replaced if mold or bacteria growth is detected. Hard-surface furniture should be disinfected and allowed to dry completely before being returned to the home.

Why Hire Professional Water Damage Restoration Services?

While some homeowners may attempt DIY restoration, hidden moisture and structural damage can lead to long-term issues such as mold growth, weakened walls, and electrical hazards. Professional restoration ensures that every aspect of water damage is addressed properly.

Thorough water damage assessment – Professionals use advanced equipment to detect moisture levels behind walls, under flooring, and in other hidden areas.
Industrial-grade drying equipment – High-powered fans and dehumidifiers speed up the drying process and prevent long-term moisture retention.
Mold remediation and prevention – Certified experts can treat affected areas and prevent mold from spreading.
Structural repairs and material replacement – Professionals ensure that walls, floors, and ceilings are properly rebuilt and reinforced.
Insurance claim assistance – Restoration services can provide detailed documentation and work directly with insurance providers to streamline the claims process.

Contact Bang It Services for Expert Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can escalate quickly if not properly handled. At Bang It Services, we provide fast, reliable restoration to help homeowners recover from floods, pipe bursts, and water-related emergencies. Our team is experienced in structural repairs, mold prevention, and complete home restoration.

We offer:

Emergency water damage response
Certified restoration professionals
Advanced drying and moisture removal techniques
Full-scale home repairs and reconstruction
Assistance with insurance claims

If your home has suffered water damage, act now to prevent further deterioration. Contact Bang It Services today for a free assessment and repair estimate.

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FAQs

What causes pipes to burst?

Pipes commonly burst due to freezing temperatures, excessive water pressure, corrosion, or physical damage.

Can I use my water immediately after a repair?

After the plumber fixes the pipe, flush the system by running faucets for several minutes to clear debris.

Will my homeowner’s insurance cover the damage?

Most policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes, but not gradual leaks or neglect.

How can I tell if my walls have hidden water damage?

Look for stains, warping, musty smells, or peeling paint, which indicate moisture behind walls.

How long does it take to dry out a flooded house?

With proper ventilation and drying equipment, it typically takes 3-5 days, depending on the severity of the flood.

Should I replace water-damaged carpets and furniture?

If soaked for more than 48 hours, it’s best to replace them to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Conclusion

A burst pipe and resulting flood can be overwhelming, but quick action can save your home from extensive damage. By shutting off water, drying the area, preventing mold, and restoring damaged areas, you can minimize long-term consequences.

Bang It Services is here to help with emergency water damage restoration, plumbing repairs, and home restoration solutions. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today for professional assistance!

Get a Quote Now