What is the first thing you should do if you have a plumbing leak?
If you discover a plumbing leak, turn off the water supply, switch off electricity if water is near sockets, and drain excess water from the system. Once the immediate risk is under control, contact a professional plumber to assess the damage and carry out repairs.
Leaks can happen at any time, causing stress and potential damage to your home. Acting quickly can prevent water damage, protect your property, and keep repair costs down. Here is what you should do if you have a leak and how to reduce the chances of it happening again.
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How can you tell if you have a plumbing leak?
Not all leaks are obvious. Some happen behind walls, under floors, or in hidden pipework. Spotting the warning signs early can prevent serious water damage and expensive repairs.
✔ Water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors
✔ Mould or mildew with a musty smell
✔ Dripping, hissing, or gurgling sounds from pipes
✔ Unexplained high water bills
✔ Pooling water near sinks, toilets, or appliances
If you notice any of these, you may have a hidden leak that needs urgent attention.
What should you do first when you find a leak?
A leak can quickly cause damage, so taking immediate action is important.
1. Turn off the water supply
Locate your stop tap (stopcock) and turn it off to stop water from escaping.
🔹 Where to find your stop tap:
- Under the kitchen sink
- In an airing cupboard
- In the basement or garage
- Under the stairs
- Next to the water meter
If the leak is local, such as under a sink or behind a toilet, use an isolation valve to stop water flow to that fixture.
2. Switch off the electricity if needed
If water is leaking near plug sockets, appliances, or electrical wiring, turn off power in that area at the fuse box. This reduces the risk of electric shock or fire.
3. Drain remaining water from the system
Once the water supply is off, open all taps to release any leftover water. This reduces pressure in the pipes and helps limit further leakage.
Got a Plumbing Leak? Act Fast!
A leak can cause serious damage if left unchecked. Call our emergency plumbers now for a fast and reliable repair.
When should you call an emergency plumber?
If you have a major leak, burst pipe, or ongoing water flow, you should call an emergency plumber straight away.
✔ Water flooding your home
✔ A leak that continues even after turning off the stop tap
✔ No access to running water due to a major plumbing failure
When speaking to the plumber, explain the location of the leak, what type of fixture is affected, and what steps you have taken. This helps them bring the right tools and get straight to work when they arrive.
How can you prevent future plumbing leaks?
Routine maintenance can reduce the risk of leaks and avoid expensive repairs.
1. Get your plumbing system inspected regularly
A professional plumber can check pipes for wear, corrosion, and weak joints before they become a problem. A yearly inspection can catch minor leaks before they get worse.
2. Insulate pipes to prevent freezing
Frozen pipes can expand and crack, leading to serious leaks. Use pipe lagging to protect pipes in:
✔ Lofts and attics
✔ Basements and garages
✔ Outdoor areas
3. Be mindful of what goes down the drain
Blocked pipes can cause water to back up and lead to leaks. Avoid flushing or pouring:
- Cooking fat, grease, or food scraps
- Wet wipes, sanitary products, or cotton buds
- Hair and soap build-up
Use a drain guard to catch debris and keep pipes clear.
4. Check your water pressure
If taps or pipes make a banging noise when turned on, your water pressure may be too high. Excess pressure can weaken joints and cause leaks over time. A plumber can fit a pressure reducing valve if needed.
Don’t Wait for a Leak – Protect Your Home Today!
Regular plumbing maintenance can help prevent costly leaks. Book a plumbing inspection and keep your home safe.
How should you deal with water damage from a leak?
If water has leaked into your home, acting quickly can prevent mould growth and structural problems.
1. Dry the affected area
Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to help dry out the space. If carpets or rugs are wet, remove them to prevent damp and mould.
2. Clean and disinfect the area
Once dry, clean affected surfaces with a mild bleach solution to kill bacteria and prevent mould from spreading.
3. Check for structural damage
Look for warped floors, cracked walls, or sagging ceilings. If the structure of your home is affected, you may need professional repairs.
Need an emergency plumber? Call us today
A plumbing leak can cause serious damage if left untreated. If you need a local emergency plumber, we are here to help.
Call Sound Plumbing & Drain now on +1 360-768-6857 for fast and reliable emergency plumbing services.
Email us at info@soundplumbers.com to book an appointment.
Reliable Emergency Plumbing When You Need It Most
Whether it’s a small leak or a major plumbing failure, our team is ready to help. Get expert advice and quick repairs now.
