A burst pipe is not a plumbing problem. It is a water damage event that starts the moment the pipe fails. The first five minutes matter more than anything else.
Step 1: Shut off the main water supply immediately
Do not wait to confirm the source. Turn off the main shutoff first. In most DFW homes it is either at the meter (outside near the street) or at a shutoff valve inside where the main line enters the house.
Step 2: Turn off the water heater
Once the supply is off, switch the water heater to pilot or vacation mode. Running a tank heater without water supply can damage the heating element.
Step 3: Open cold-water taps to drain pressure
Open faucets on the lowest floor of the house to drain remaining water from the lines. This reduces the volume of water that will continue to leak from the break point.
Step 4: Document everything before cleanup
Take photos and video of the damage area before you touch anything. Your homeowner’s insurance will require documentation.
Step 5: Call Staggs Plumbing
We respond in an average of 45 minutes in our core DFW service area. We carry copper, CPVC, and PEX on every truck. We quote before we cut, and the price does not change.
Emergency line: 682-284-0966 — answered 24/7, including holidays.
