What Should I Do in Case of a Major Water Leak?
By Schrader Plumbing – Your Trusted Fort Worth Area Plumbers
📞 817-262-0989 | 🌐 www.schraderplumbing.com
A major water leak can turn into a disaster within minutes, causing significant property damage and expensive repairs. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, water heater failure, or a broken fixture, acting quickly is the key to minimizing the damage.
At Schrader Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners in the Fort Worth area handle emergencies like this. Here’s what you should do if you’re faced with a major water leak.
1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply Immediately
Your first priority is to stop the flow of water.
- Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve (usually in the garage, outside by the foundation, or near the street).
- Turn it clockwise to shut it off completely.
- If you’re not sure where it is, now is a good time to find it before an emergency happens.
💡 Tip: If the leak is isolated (like under a sink or at a toilet), you may be able to shut off just that fixture’s water supply instead of the whole house.
2. Turn Off Electricity if Necessary
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If the leak is near outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel:
- Shut off power to that area of the home.
- If the leak is widespread or you’re unsure, turn off the main breaker.
3. Protect Your Belongings
Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the water source. Place aluminum foil or wooden blocks under furniture legs to prevent further damage.
4. Contain the Water
Use towels, buckets, or wet/dry vacuums to catch and control as much water as possible. The goal is to keep the water from spreading into other rooms or soaking flooring and walls.
5. Call Schrader Plumbing Immediately
We’re available to respond quickly to plumbing emergencies. Our licensed plumbers can:
- Locate the source of the leak
- Perform emergency repairs
- Prevent further damage to your home
📞 Call us at 817-262-0989 — we’ll walk you through immediate steps and get a plumber to you fast.
6. Document the Damage for Insurance
Take photos and videos of the leak and any damage it caused. This documentation can help when filing a homeowners insurance claim.
7. Begin Drying the Area
Once the leak is stopped, use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to start drying out the area. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth, which can begin within 24–48 hours. We can also recommend a water restoration company that can get you back to normal quickly.
Preventing Future Water Leaks
While some leaks happen unexpectedly, regular plumbing maintenance can reduce your risk:
- Schedule annual plumbing inspections
- Replace old or corroded pipes before they fail
- Install a water leak detection system
- Maintain your water heater and appliances
✅ A Quick Response Can Save Thousands in Repairs
The faster you act during a major water leak, the less damage you’ll face. Keep our number handy and save it in your phone so you’re ready if an emergency strikes.
📞 Schrader Plumbing – 817-262-0989
🌐 www.schraderplumbing.com
Serving Fort Worth, North Richland Hills, Keller, Southlake, and surrounding areas.
By: Michelle Kurcina
Last modified:
Last Modified: September 5, 2025 at 1:57 pm
