Guides

Burst pipe at home: what to do in the first 10 minutes

Updated October 2026 · PipeFixMalaysia

AI illustration

In short

Shut off the water first. In a landed home the main stop valve is usually next to the water meter near the gate; in a condo it is usually by your unit's meter in the corridor or meter room. Switch off power if water nears sockets, move valuables, take photos, then call a plumber or Air Selangor.

The first 10 minutes

Shut off the water. Landed homes: the main valve is usually beside the meter at the front of the property; turn it clockwise. If you have a roof tank, close the tank outlet valve too, as the tank can keep feeding the pipes. Condos: the meter and valve are usually in a corridor riser or meter room, and some units also have a valve inside. If you cannot find it, call management or the guardhouse.
Stay safe with electricity. If water is near sockets, appliances or the DB box, switch off the main switch only if you can reach it while standing on a dry floor. Otherwise keep clear and call for help. Turn off the water heater.
Protect belongings. Move electronics, documents and rugs, and use towels and buckets. In a condo, warn the unit below and management.
Take photos and video of the burst, the water spread and damaged items before cleaning up. Keep damaged items and receipts.

Air Selangor or a plumber?

Air Selangor, which supplies Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, has said its responsibility ends at the meter, and leaks inside your home are the owner's responsibility.

Before the meter (the road, pavement, the pipe to your meter or the meter itself): report it through the Air Selangor app or website.
After the meter (inside your compound or unit): call a plumber.
Shared condo pipes such as risers: report to your JMB or MC.

What a plumber will do

Confirm the supply is isolated and find the exact burst point
Cut out the damaged section and fit matching pipe and fittings
Test the line and check the meter for any other leak
Check for hidden leaks if water came from a wall or ceiling
Give you a written report and photos

Cost depends on the pipe type, access and whether tiles or walls must be opened, so ask for a written quote. Our emergency plumber team covers KL and Selangor; see also leaking pipe repair.

Insurance pointers

A houseowner policy generally covers the building and a householder policy covers contents. Check which you have.
Read your policy wording on burst pipes and exclusions such as wear and tear.
Tell your insurer early and ask what they need before repairs start.
Keep photos, the plumber's report and invoices.
Tenants: the landlord's policy may not cover your belongings.

Questions people ask us

Where is the main water valve in a condo?

It is usually next to your unit's water meter, often in a meter room or riser on your floor, and sometimes behind a locked panel. Some units also have an isolation valve inside. If you cannot find or open it, ask management or security for help.

Will Air Selangor fix a burst pipe inside my house?

No. Air Selangor has said its responsibility ends at the meter, so pipes after the meter are the owner's to repair. Report leaks before the meter, or at the meter itself, to Air Selangor through its app or website.

Does home insurance cover a burst pipe?

It depends on your policy. Houseowner and householder policies sold in Malaysia can include burst pipe damage, but cover, limits and exclusions differ. Check your policy wording and contact your insurer before starting repairs if you can.