How to Tell If a Pipe Has Burst?

A burst pipe isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can turn into a costly disaster. If you’ve ever had a burst pipe, you’ll know it’s no small issue. One small crack can lead to serious water damage around your home. It can ruin walls, flooring, furniture and your home’s structure. Even worse, it creates a breeding ground for mould to grow, which can affect your health.

To make matters worse, a burst pipe can send your water bill soaring without warning. That’s why it’s so important to spot the signs early. The sooner you act, the less damage and cost you’ll have to deal with later. So, how to tell if a pipe burst? Read on to find out what to look for.

Signs of Burst Pipes

Often, the signs of burst pipes are subtle and can easily be overlooked. Being aware of these indicators can help you act promptly, preventing extensive damage and costly repairs. Keep an eye out for the following:

• Unusual Water Sounds

  Do you hear running or dripping noises when all taps are off? Whistling, bubbling, or banging noises in your walls might indicate water escaping from a burst pipe. These sounds often originate from within walls or under floors.

• Wet Spots or Water Stains

  Unexplained dampness, water stains on walls or ceilings, or pooling are clear signs of a leak. Over time, this moisture can lead to structural damage and mould growth.

• Low Water Pressure

  A noticeable decrease in flow from your taps and showers can indicate a leak in the plumbing system. This often results from water escaping through a burst pipe, reducing the flow to your fixtures.

• Discoloured or Smelly Water

  If your tap water appears brownish or has an unusual odour, it could be due to rust or contaminants entering through a damaged pipe. This is especially concerning if the change is sudden and affects multiple outlets.

• Higher Water Bills

  An unexpected spike in your water bill without a corresponding increase in usage may indicate a leak. Burst pipes can waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher costs.

• Unexplained Water Puddles

  Finding wet patches or puddles in unexpected places can signal a burst pipe. They often show up under sinks, on floors, or near walls—even when no taps or appliances are running.

What to Do When a Water Pipe Bursts

Now that you know how to tell if a pipe burst, let’s discuss what to do when you notice any of the above-mentioned signs. Here are five key actions to take right away:

• Turn Off the Water

  The first step is to locate your main valve and turn it off. This prevents any additional flow from causing further damage to your home.

• Drain Your Pipes

  Next, open all taps to release any remaining liquid from the system. Doing this relieves pressure and helps minimise further leakage.

• Switch Off Electricity

  If moisture is near electrical outlets or appliances, switch off the electricity to those areas immediately. This precaution reduces the risk of electric shock and keeps you safe.

• Document the Damage

  Take photos of any visible damage for an insurance claim before clean-up.

• Move Valuables Away

  If it’s safe, move furniture, electronics, and other valuables away from the leak. This way, you can protect your belongings from water damage.

• Call a Professional Immediately

  If you’re not sure what to do when a pipe bursts, call a licensed plumber to assess and repair the damage. Professionals have the tools and experience to fix the issue properly and prevent future bursts.

Burst Pipe Plumber: Contact VCM Plumbing

Finding the burst pipe location and making proper repairs requires professional expertise. At VCM Plumbing, we specialise in emergency burst pipe detection and repair in Melbourne. Whether the pipe is behind a wall, under the floor, or buried underground, our licensed burst pipe plumbers will find it and fix it fast.

Give us a call on 0438 073 355 if you notice any of the warning signs we’ve mentioned – even if you’re not completely sure it’s a burst pipe. We’d rather help you confirm there’s no issue than have you deal with extensive water damage later. You can also email us at info@vcmplumbing.com.au for prompt and reliable service.