What should you do first?
Turn off the property's water supply if you know how and can safely reach the stop tap. Do not force a stuck valve or enter an unsafe area to reach it. In an apartment, ask building management about the correct isolation point.
Keep clear of wet electrical fittings, appliances and water beneath a sagging ceiling. Keep children and pets out of the affected area. Call 000 if there is immediate serious danger.
- Describe whether water is still flowing.
- Say whether the leak is indoors, outdoors or concealed.
- Mention access restrictions and shared building plumbing.
Where has the pipe failed?
A visible split, leaking joint or failed connection gives a different starting point from water appearing through a wall. Explain what you can see without removing panels or opening the building.
If the source is uncertain, leak investigation may be needed before the repair scope is clear. If the leak appears to be on the street, at the meter or in utility pipework, contact your water authority about responsibility.
What affects the repair?
Pipe location, material, access and the extent of damage determine the work needed. Concealed pipes may require access through a wall, floor or ground. Ask whether access, reinstatement and further pipe replacement are included in the proposed work.
When you call, mention previous failures in the same area. Repeated leaks need the surrounding condition considered, rather than assuming every failure is isolated.
Common questions
Should I wait if turning off the water stops the leak?
Isolating the supply limits escaping water but does not repair the failed pipe. Discuss the fault and safe restoration of supply before using the affected plumbing again.