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

1. Locate the frozen section (loft, under sinks, external walls, garages)

2. Leave the affected tap slightly open

3. Apply gentle heat using a hairdryer on low, warm towels or a hot water bottle

4. Work from the tap end toward the frozen section

5. Warm the surrounding room gradually

6. 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