Frozen & Burst Pipes: Emergency Action Guide for South East London Homes
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Frozen & Burst Pipes: Emergency Action Guide for South East London Homes
Frozen or burst pipes can cause serious water damage in minutes — especially during winter cold snaps. If you’re dealing with a frozen pipe or a sudden leak, this guide explains exactly what to do immediately, how to minimise damage, and when to call an emergency plumber in South East London.
TL;DR – What to do immediately
Turn off the water at the stopcock (often under the kitchen sink)
Turn off central heating if a pipe has burst
Open taps to drain the system and relieve pressure
Contain water with buckets, towels or containers
Call an emergency plumber immediately
Take photos of damage for insurance if safe to do so
Why pipes freeze in South East London homes
Even though winters in South East London are relatively mild, frozen pipes are still common during cold snaps. This is often due to:
Older housing stock built before modern insulation standards
Exposed pipes in lofts, garages, outbuildings or along external walls
Overnight temperature drops when heating is reduced
Poorly insulated or unused pipework
Period properties in areas like Sidcup, Bromley and Bexleyheath are particularly vulnerable.
What to do if a pipe freezes
If you notice no water coming from a tap, visible frost on pipes, or unusual noises, act quickly to prevent the pipe from bursting.
Step-by-step checklist
Locate the frozen section (loft, under sinks, external walls, garages)
Leave the affected tap slightly open
Apply gentle heat using a hairdryer on low, warm towels or a hot water bottle
Work from the tap end toward the frozen section
Warm the surrounding room gradually
Watch carefully for leaks as the pipe thaws
Never use a blowtorch, heat gun or open flame.
Warning signs a pipe may already be burst
Damp patches on walls or ceilings
Puddles with no obvious source
Hissing or trickling sounds
Sudden drop in water pressure
Bulging or cracking on exposed pipes
If you see these signs, stop thawing and call a plumber immediately.
What to do if a pipe bursts
A burst pipe can release hundreds of litres of water per hour. Speed matters.
1) Stop the water
Turn off the stopcock immediately
Turn off the boiler or immersion heater
Turn off central heating
Open taps to drain remaining water
2) Minimise damage
Catch leaks with buckets and towels
Move valuables if safe
Mop up standing water
Turn off electricity at the fuse box if water is near electrics and it’s safe
Take photos for insurance purposes
3) Call an emergency plumber
Burst pipes require professional repair to prevent further damage and ensure the system is safe.
Call now: 07867 360868 / 07793 499179
When you should call a professional plumber
Call immediately if:
A pipe has burst
You can’t locate the frozen section
Multiple pipes are affected
Water is near electrical sockets or appliances
The stopcock won’t turn
Damage is spreading quickly
You suspect a boiler or gas-related issue
How to prevent frozen pipes
Before winter
Insulate exposed pipes with pipe lagging
Seal gaps where pipes pass through walls or floors
Make sure your stopcock turns easily
Service your boiler annually
During cold weather
Keep heating on a low, consistent temperature
Open cupboard doors under sinks
Let taps drip slightly during extreme cold
Drain and isolate outdoor taps
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can a frozen pipe burst?
Pipes can burst during freezing or when thawing begins. You may not notice until water starts flowing again.
Will home insurance cover burst pipe damage?
Many UK policies do, but you must usually show reasonable precautions were taken. Always check your policy.
Can I pour boiling water on a frozen pipe?
No. Sudden heat can crack pipes. Always thaw gradually.
At what temperature do pipes freeze in UK homes?
Risk increases during prolonged sub-zero temperatures, especially in unheated or poorly insulated areas.
Should I turn off heating if a pipe bursts?
Yes. Turn off central heating and the boiler to reduce pressure and leakage.
Can frozen pipes affect my boiler?
Yes. A frozen condensate pipe can stop a boiler from working. Call a Gas Safe engineer if unsure.
Emergency plumbing in South East London
Parallel Plumbing Solutions provides fast, reliable emergency plumbing across Sidcup, Bexley, Bromley, Eltham, Dartford, Bexleyheath and Chislehurst.
Call: 07867 360868 / 07793 499179