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My Pipes Burst While I Was on Vacation, What Do I Do Now?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Shut off the Water and Power

As soon as you step inside and see water, find the main shutoff valve and turn it off. If the valve is in a crawlspace or near the water heater, you may need a wrench. Do not walk through standing water if the power is on; turn off electricity at the breaker first if it is safe to do so.

If you cannot reach the breaker or the water is deep, wait outside and call the pros. They have the tools to handle the situation safely. Your first step is to stop the flow, so the damage does not get worse while you figure out the next move.

  • Locate the main valve before an emergency, and write down its location.
  • Keep a wrench near the valve for quick access.
  • Do not touch electrical panels or appliances in wet areas.
  • Open windows and doors to help air out the space.
  • Take photos of the water level and affected rooms before cleanup.

Call the Pros for Water Extraction

Once the water is off, contact local water damage pros to handle the extraction. They bring pumps and vacuums to remove standing water from carpets, wood floors, and basements. The sooner they start, the less chance of mold and structural rot taking hold.

The pros will also check for hidden moisture in walls and under flooring. They use moisture meters to find wet spots you cannot see. Do not try to mop up a large flood on your own; that takes hours and misses the deeper water that causes the most damage.

  • Remove small items like rugs and furniture to dry areas.
  • Do not use household vacuums on standing water.
  • Keep a record of what you moved and where.
  • Let the pros handle electrical hazards in wet rooms.
  • Ask them to check the basement and crawlspace too.

Dry Out Walls and Floors

After extraction, the pros set up air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the structure. This step can take several days, depending on how much water soaked into drywall and wood. They will monitor moisture levels and adjust the equipment as needed.

You can help by opening closet doors and removing baseboards if asked. Do not turn off the drying equipment until the pros say it is okay. Cutting corners here can lead to warped floors, peeling paint, and mold growth later.

  • Keep windows closed if the humidity outside is high.
  • Do not paint or seal walls until they are fully dry.
  • Check under sinks and near appliances for hidden wet spots.
  • Use a dehumidifier at home if the pros recommend it.
  • Throw away soaked porous items like mattresses or pillows.

Document the Damage for Insurance

Take clear photos and videos of every wet area, including the burst pipe itself. Write down when you left and when you returned, and list anything damaged, like furniture or electronics. This information helps your insurance company understand the claim.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if you have coverage for water damage from burst pipes. Keep receipts for any items you buy, like a temporary dehumidifier, and submit them with your claim.

  • Photograph the pipe, the water line, and damaged belongings.
  • Save receipts for any cleaning supplies you buy.
  • Do not throw away damaged items until an adjuster sees them.
  • Write down the date and time you found the water.

Prevent Future Bursts

Burst pipes often happen when water freezes in the lines, especially in cold climates. If you live in Burnsville, keep your shutoff valve location written down. Before a winter trip, set the heat to at least 55 degrees and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach the pipes.

Consider installing a smart water shutoff device that can detect leaks and turn off the water automatically. Insulate pipes in unheated areas like garages and attics. Ask a plumber to check your pipes for weak spots before the next cold season.

  • Drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior spigots.
  • Keep garage doors closed during freezing weather.
  • Let a faucet drip during extreme cold to keep water moving.
  • Insulate pipes in crawlspaces and attics.
  • Have a plumber inspect your system annually.

Water damage does not wait

Call (952) 522-6744 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do first when I find a burst pipe?

Turn off the main water valve immediately to stop the flow. Then, if safe, shut off the electricity to affected areas. Take photos for your records, and call the pros to handle the extraction and drying.

Can I dry out the water myself?

Small spills you can handle with towels, but a burst pipe usually means gallons of water. Household fans and mops cannot remove water trapped in walls or under floors. Pros have industrial pumps and dehumidifiers that dry the structure properly.

Will my insurance cover burst pipe damage?

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Many homeowner policies cover sudden, accidental water damage from burst pipes, but not all do. Check your policy and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.

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