Quick answer
Shut off your home's main water valve immediately, then turn off electricity to any wet area, open a faucet to drain pressure, and move belongings away from the water. Then call a plumber. Acting in the first few minutes is what limits damage.
The 7 steps
- Shut off the main water valve — usually where the line enters the house, near the meter, or in the garage
- Turn off power to wet areas at the breaker if water is near outlets or appliances
- Open the lowest faucet to drain remaining water and relieve pressure
- If the water heater is involved, turn off its power or gas
- Move furniture and valuables; start soaking up standing water
- Photograph damage before cleanup for insurance
- Call 813-600-3797 — or see what counts as a plumbing emergency
Find your shutoff before you need it
Most people search for the main valve during an emergency. Locate it now, make sure it turns, and show everyone in the house. If it's stuck or corroded, have it replaced — it's a small job that matters a lot.
After the emergency
Repeated pipe failures can mean the whole system is aging. Read repipe vs. repair, or if water may be under the floor, slab leak signs.
Common questions
Why do pipes burst in Florida if it rarely freezes?
Usually from corrosion, high water pressure, failing fittings, or physical damage — not freezing. Aging galvanized or thin-wall copper is especially vulnerable.