A burst water pipe can release a lot of water quickly, and the damage often spreads before anyone notices. Knowing why pipes fail helps you spot the warning signs early and lower the risk at home.
This guide covers common causes of burst pipes in Sydney homes, practical ways to reduce the risk, and exactly what to do if a pipe bursts, including how to deal safely with water near electrics.
What Causes Water Pipes to Burst?
Pipes rarely fail for just one reason. More often, one or more of these factors weakens a pipe or joint over time until it gives way.
High water pressure
Sydney Water notes that high water pressure can lead to breaks in water pipes and cause leaks. Sustained high pressure puts extra strain on pipes, joints, taps and appliance hoses. Signs that pressure may be high include banging pipes when taps are turned off and taps or fittings that wear out unusually quickly.
Age and corrosion
Older metal pipes, such as galvanised steel, can corrode from the inside over many years. Corrosion thins the pipe wall and weakens joints, making leaks and bursts more likely. If your home still has its original pipework from several decades ago, it’s worth having it checked.
Ground movement and nearby works
Pipes under and around a home can be stressed when the ground moves, for example during nearby excavation or building work, or as the ground settles over time. Movement puts strain on joints, which are often the weakest points.
Poor installation or worn fittings
Pipes that were poorly supported, joined with the wrong fittings or installed without proper care are more likely to fail. Flexible hoses under sinks and behind toilets and washing machines are also common failure points as they age.
Accidental damage
Drilling or nailing into a wall, or digging in the garden, can puncture a pipe. If you’re planning work near where pipes might run, it’s worth checking with a licensed plumber first.
What About Blocked Drains?
Drains and sewer pipes are not under the same pressure as water supply pipes, so a blockage is more likely to cause an overflow than a burst. Tree roots, for example, are a well-known cause of blocked and damaged drains and sewer pipes rather than burst water supply pipes. If drains are slow or backing up, see a plumber about clearing the blockage before it causes an overflow.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of a Burst Pipe?
Have high water pressure checked
If you suspect your water pressure is high, a licensed plumber can test it and advise whether a pressure limiting valve would help protect your pipes and appliances.
Watch for early warning signs
Many bursts start as small leaks. Look out for:
- damp patches, stains or bubbling paint on walls and ceilings
- a musty smell in cupboards under sinks
- water pooling where it should not
- an unexplained jump in your water bill
Sydney Water suggests a simple check: turn off all taps and water-using appliances, then watch the water meter. If it keeps moving, water may be escaping somewhere on the property. Our guide on what to do when your water meter is spinning but you cannot find the leak explains the next steps.
Have older pipework assessed
If your home has older metal pipes, or you have had repeated leaks, a licensed plumber can inspect the pipework and recommend whether sections should be repaired or replaced.
Check flexible hoses
Look at the braided hoses under sinks and behind the toilet and washing machine from time to time. Bulging, fraying, rust or moisture at the connections are signs they should be replaced by a plumber.
Use a licensed plumber for new work
In NSW, the NSW Government states that you need a licence or certificate to do any plumbing, draining or gasfitting work, regardless of the cost of the work. Correctly installed pipework helps protect against future bursts. You can confirm a plumber’s licence using the Service NSW licence check.
What to Do if a Pipe Bursts
If a pipe bursts, acting calmly and in the right order helps keep you safe and limits the damage.
- Keep clear of electrics. The NSW SES advises not touching any electrical equipment if you are standing in water or if your hands are wet. Keep people and pets away from water near power points, appliances and light fittings.
- Only switch off power if it is safe. Ausgrid advises that if your property is not flooded and it is safe to do so, you can switch off and unplug appliances. Do not approach the main switchboard in wet conditions or if your property is flooded.
- Turn off the water at the meter tap. Sydney Water explains that the meter tap next to your water meter controls the water supply to your property. Turning it off stops the flow to the burst pipe.
- Contain the water. Move valuables and furniture away, and use towels and buckets to catch and soak up water.
- Call a licensed plumber. A burst pipe needs a licensed repair. For urgent help, see our emergency plumber page.
- Get electrical advice if water has reached electrics. Appliances and electrical connections affected by water should be checked by a licensed electrician before they are used again. In Ausgrid’s network area, electrical emergencies can be reported on 13 13 88. Outside Ausgrid’s network, call your own electricity distributor. Call 000 if anyone’s life is in danger.
If the meter tap itself is leaking, or the leak is in Sydney Water’s pipes, call Sydney Water on 13 20 90 (24/7).
Who Is Responsible for a Burst Pipe on My Property?
Sydney Water states that the property owner is responsible for fixing all the pipes and fittings on the property that connect to its water network. If the leak is inside your home or on your property, you will usually need a licensed plumber. If the meter tap itself is leaking, Sydney Water says it will fix the meter tap free of charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is my water meter tap?
Sydney Water explains that the meter tap is next to your water meter. It’s worth finding both now, before you need them in a hurry.
Can I repair a burst pipe myself?
In NSW, plumbing work needs a licensed plumber. You can stop the water at the meter tap and limit the damage, but the repair itself should be done by a licensed professional.
How do I know if a pipe has burst inside a wall?
Signs include damp or bubbling patches on walls or ceilings, the sound of running water when everything is off, and a water meter that keeps moving. A licensed plumber can locate the leak.
Key Takeaways
- High water pressure, ageing or corroded pipes, ground movement, poor installation and accidental damage are common causes of burst water pipes.
- Watch for damp patches, unexplained water use and worn flexible hoses, and have high pressure checked by a licensed plumber.
- If a pipe bursts, keep clear of electrics, turn off the meter tap and call a licensed plumber.
- Never approach a wet switchboard. Have water-affected electrics checked by a licensed electrician.
- Property owners are responsible for pipes on their property, and all plumbing work in NSW needs a licence.
For help with a burst pipe, see our burst pipe repairs page, or read our guide on when a water leak becomes an emergency.
