Featured guide
Stop and contain a household water leak
A calm first-response plan to limit damage, stay safe and leave useful evidence for a plumber, landlord or insurer.
More practical guidance
Move home without losing essential servicesTrack utilities, readings, addresses and evidence across the final week, moving day and the first days in the new home.Record and report damp or mouldDocument the location and scale, protect health and push for the underlying moisture problem to be identified rather than only cleaning the surface.
Quick checklist
- Location of the stop tap known
- Water source isolated or professional help called
- Electricity risk checked without entering water
- Photos and times recorded
- Neighbour below warned if relevant
Common problems
The stop tap will not move
Do not use excessive force. Call an emergency plumber or your water supplier for advice on the external stop valve.
Water is coming through a ceiling
Keep out of the room, isolate electricity only from a dry safe position, and call for urgent professional help.
What to do next
Once the flow is stopped, ventilate safely, keep receipts and ask what must be dried or inspected before redecoration.