Where is my water mains shut-off valve?

In most NSW homes the main shut-off is next to your water meter, near the front boundary of the property and often close to an outdoor tap. Turning the tap or lever clockwise shuts water off to the whole house. It's worth locating yours now, before an emergency.

Should I turn off my hot water system after a burst pipe?

If the burst is on a hot-water line, yes — switching off the hot water system (at the power point for electric units, or the gas isolation valve for gas units) stops it heating and refilling. If you're unsure which line has burst, our plumber will check when we arrive.

How fast can you get to a burst pipe emergency?

We aim to have an Eagle plumber at your door within 60 minutes for emergencies across our service areas. Call 0489 998 221 and we'll give you an honest ETA on the spot — we never over-promise.

Is a burst pipe covered by home insurance?

Sudden burst pipes and the resulting water damage are often covered, but it depends on your policy. Take photos before cleaning up and keep our invoice — we're happy to provide clear documentation of the repair for your claim.

Burst Pipe? What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives

Quick answer

Turn off your water at the mains straight away, then switch off electricity if water is near power points or appliances. Drain the cold taps to release pressure, move valuables clear, and call a licensed 24 hour plumber. Eagle Plumbing 24/7 aims to reach Sydney emergencies within 60 minutes.

Step 1: Stop the water at your mains

A burst pipe releases water fast, so your first job is to stop the flow at the water meter. Every minute the mains is off is water that isn't damaging your floors, walls and ceilings.

1Find your water meter — it's usually near the front boundary of the property, often close to an outdoor tap.
2Turn the tap or lever next to the meter clockwise until it stops. This shuts off water to the whole house.
3Open a cold tap inside (like the kitchen or laundry) to drain the remaining water in the pipes and relieve pressure.

If you can't find your shut-off valve or it won't budge, don't force it — call us on 0489 998 221 and we'll talk you through it while a plumber is on the way.

Step 2: Switch off power near any water

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If water is pooling near power points, the switchboard, light fittings or appliances, treat it as a serious hazard.

›Turn off electricity at the main switch on your switchboard if it's safe and dry to reach.
›Never touch wet electrical fittings, switches or appliances.
›If the switchboard itself is wet, stay clear and wait for a professional.

Step 3: Contain the damage while you wait

Once the water is off, a few quick actions can save you thousands in damage and make any insurance claim far easier.

›Move furniture, electronics and valuables away from the water.
›Use towels, buckets and a mop to soak up standing water.
›If the burst is on a hot-water line, switch off your hot water system too.
›Take clear photos and a short video of the damage for your insurer before you clean up.

When to call an emergency plumber

Any burst pipe is an emergency — even a small one can hide a much larger problem inside the wall or slab. Because water damage only gets worse with time, it pays to get a licensed plumber out straight away rather than wait.

Eagle Plumbing 24/7 is available around the clock across Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury and the Illawarra. We're fully licensed (NSW Licence 498336C) and insured, carry a $0 call-out fee on standard call-outs, back our work with a lifetime workmanship guarantee, and aim to be at your door within 60 minutes. Call 0489 998 221 any time, day or night.

How to help prevent burst pipes

›Keep an eye on water pressure — pressure that's too high stresses pipes and fittings over time.
›Insulate exposed and outdoor pipes, especially in colder areas like the Blue Mountains where overnight frosts are common.
›Fix small leaks and drips early — they're often an early warning of a bigger failure.
›If your home still has old galvanised steel pipes, ask a plumber about replacing them before they corrode through.