Fixing leaking pipes

How do I shut off the water?

Shutting off the water

1. If you can shut the water off to individual areas, you won't need to turn your water off at the mains. Look for a shut off valve close to the damaged pipe. That will cut the water supply to that particular area. They're usually hidden behind or under fixtures.

2. If you can't shut the water off to a particular area, you'll need to find the stopcock or stop valve. They're usually found on the ground floor of your home, most often under the kitchen sink. If you're having trouble finding it, trace the pipes back from the tap until you find a valve on your main water supply.

3. Turn the stopcock clockwise to turn your water supply off.

How can I temporarily fix a leaking pipe?

You need to try and lower the pressure in the water system as much as possible to take the strain off the pipe.

Getting the water pressure down

1. Turn off the water first.

2. Turn on all the taps that use the leaking pipe, so you can drain out any water. This should give you a better view of the problem and stop more water damage.

3. Look for bleed valves if the taps don't drain the pipe.

4. Tightly wrap a cloth round the pipe, or by taping any splits or cracks you can see. This will only work for a short while, and you shouldn't run any water through the pipe for a long period. It'll at least stop more water escaping and prevent extra water damage.

If you're a HomeCare customer call our Breakdowns and enquiries line.

Or if you are still having trouble visit our One-off plumbing and drains repair page.