An emergency leak can go from inconvenience to major damage quickly, especially if water is spreading into floors, ceilings, electrics or neighbouring rooms. The first priority is always to make the situation safe and limit the damage while you arrange help.

1. Turn off the water if you can

If the leak is active and you know where the internal stop tap is, turn it off as soon as possible. This is usually the quickest way to stop more water escaping through the system.

If the leak is isolated to one appliance or one fixture, you may be able to turn off the local isolation valve instead.

2. Turn off electricity nearby if water is reaching sockets or wiring

If water is running near plug sockets, light fittings, a fuse board or any electrical equipment, do not take risks. Turn off the power to the affected area if it is safe to do so and avoid touching wet electrics.

If you are unsure, step back and get professional help.

3. Move valuables and protect flooring

Lift anything that could be damaged by water, including rugs, boxes, appliances, paperwork and soft furnishings. Towels, buckets and containers can help reduce the immediate spread while you wait for a repair.

4. Take photos or a short video

Clear photos help explain what is happening and can make a call-out quicker and more accurate. If you contact us on WhatsApp, sending photos of the leak, the affected area and the pipework nearby is useful.

5. Do not keep resetting the same problem

If a leak keeps returning, a pipe keeps dripping, or pressure keeps dropping, temporary fixes often make the bigger issue harder to diagnose. It is usually better to stop, make the area safe and get the fault checked properly.

6. Call or WhatsApp with the key details

The quickest information to send is:

• your postcode
• where the leak is coming from
• whether the water is still running
• whether electrics are involved
• a few clear photos or a short video

When to call urgently

Call straight away if:

• water is pouring through a ceiling
• the leak is near electrics
• the stop tap will not shut off the supply
• a boiler or heating fault is causing water damage
• the property cannot safely be left as it is

Need help with an emergency leak?

The Leak & Heat Co covers London, Kent and Essex for emergency plumbing repairs, heating faults and urgent property issues. If you need help quickly, call or send photos on WhatsApp and we can advise on the next step.