Burst pipe or burst geyser: what to do before the plumber arrives

1 November 2026 · Amptex Projects

When water is running, the first few minutes matter most. Do these in order, and only if it's safe.

If it's a burst pipe

1. Close the main stopcock. It's usually near the water meter or where the supply enters the house.
2. Switch off electrical equipment near the water, if you can do that safely.
3. Open a cold tap low in the house to drain what's left in the pipes.
4. Call a plumber. Our 24/7 line is 011 791 6121.

If it's a burst geyser

1. Switch the geyser off at the DB board first.
2. Close the water supply to the geyser, or the main stopcock.
3. Keep out of the room under the geyser. A wet ceiling can come down.
4. Call a plumber. Geysers sit where plumbing meets electrics, and our team handles both.

Do you have a burst pipe or a burst geyser?

Water coming through a ceiling near the geyser, often with a drip tray or overflow running, points to the geyser. Water coming up through paving, or a wall spraying or soaking, points to a pipe. If you're not sure, close the main stopcock and switch the geyser off anyway.

What to keep clear of

Stay away from water near plug points and DB boards, and don't stand under a sagging ceiling to take a photo.

Insurance

Take photos from a safe position. Our quote and invoice can support a claim; whether you are covered is between you and your insurer.

Read more about burst pipe repairs, burst geyser repairs and our 24/7 emergency plumbers. We work on electric geysers only, not gas.

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