Published 2026-06-01 · Cambridge Plumbers
Find your toby (the main shut-off valve, usually near the street boundary in a small covered box) and turn it off to stop water to the whole property. Many homes also have an internal main shut-off under the kitchen sink or by the cylinder. Knowing where yours is before an emergency is half the battle.
Open the cold taps (lowest ones first) to drain remaining water out of the pipes and relieve pressure. If it's a hot pipe, also switch off the hot water system. This reduces how much water keeps escaping from the burst.
If water is anywhere near electrical fittings, switchboards or appliances, keep clear and switch off the power at the board if it's safe to reach. Never touch electrics while standing in water.
Mop up, move valuables, and put towels or a bucket under the leak. Then call a 24/7 plumber. We'll talk you through anything urgent and get to you fast to repair the pipe and check for hidden damage.
FAQ
Usually near the street boundary in a small in-ground box with a lid. There's often also an internal shut-off under the kitchen sink or near the hot water cylinder.
If water is near electrical fittings or the switchboard, switch off the mains at the board if you can reach it safely — never touch electrics while standing in water.
Yes — our emergency line is 24/7. Call 07 808 6936 any time and we'll respond fast.
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Tell us what you need and we’ll get straight back to you. For burst pipes or blocked drains, call 07 808 6936.