emergency
External / garden tap burst — Same-Day Plumber Across the North West
We can address your burst external tap efficiently, restoring your water supply with minimal fuss.
In short
A burst external or garden tap can lead to unexpected water loss and potential property damage. Your first step should be to locate and turn off your main water supply. KJ Plumbers can then dispatch a qualified engineer to diagnose the issue and provide a clear, no-obligation quote for repair.
Tell KJ what's wrong
Free and no obligation — we'll get a qualified local plumber on it.
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For genuine emergencies call 01706 318200, or the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
Start with one tap
Do this right now
Immediate steps to keep you safe
Turn Off Main Water Supply
Locate your property's main stopcock, usually found under the kitchen sink, in a utility cupboard, or near the incoming water pipe. Turn it clockwise until the water flow stops completely to prevent further leakage and potential damage.
Turn Off External Tap
Even if damaged, ensure the external tap's handle is in the 'off' position to minimise any residual water escape once the main supply is restored.
Assess for Indoor Leaks
Check internal walls, particularly near where the external tap is mounted, for any signs of dampness, drips, or water ingress, as a burst can sometimes affect internal pipework.
Clear Surrounding Area
Remove any garden furniture, pots, or debris from around the burst tap to provide clear access for the engineer. This also helps prevent further damage from standing water.
Common causes
What's usually behind external / garden tap burst
Freezing Temperatures
This is the most common cause in the UK. Water inside the tap or connecting pipe expands when frozen, putting immense pressure on the metal or plastic components, leading to cracks or ruptures.
Age and Wear
Over time, taps can degrade due to exposure to the elements. Seals can perish, and metal can corrode, weakening the structure and making it more susceptible to bursting under pressure.
Poor Installation
If an external tap was installed without adequate frost protection, such as an internal isolation valve or an anti-siphon device, it's more prone to bursting during cold weather.
High Water Pressure
While less common for a burst, consistently high water pressure can stress tap components over time, especially if they are already weakened or old, potentially leading to failure.
How KJ handles this
What happens when we're on-site
- 1
Initial Assessment
Our engineer will first conduct a thorough assessment of the burst tap, checking for the extent of the damage and identifying the exact point of the rupture.
- 2
Make Safe
The primary goal is to ensure no further water damage occurs. This involves confirming the main water supply is off or isolating the specific outdoor tap spur if possible.
- 3
Diagnostic Report
Following the assessment, you will receive a detailed diagnostic report outlining the cause of the burst, the necessary repairs or replacement, and any related observations.
- 4
Transparent Quotation
Before any work commences, a clear, written quotation will be provided for the required repair or replacement. This quote will detail all costs involved.
- 5
Professional Repair/Replacement
Once the quote is accepted, our engineer will proceed with replacing the damaged tap, pipework, or components, ensuring the new installation is secure and leak-free.
- 6
Functional Testing
After the repair, the water supply will be carefully reinstated, and the new tap will be thoroughly tested to confirm proper function and to check for any leaks.
Where we cover
North West England — same-day where possible
FAQ
Frequent questions
What should I do first if my external tap bursts?
Your immediate action should be to turn off your property's main water supply to prevent further water loss and potential damage. Then, contact us for assistance.
How quickly can you attend to a burst external tap?
As this is an emergency, we aim to dispatch an engineer as promptly as possible. Our dispatch team will provide an estimated arrival time when you call.
Will you fix it straight away?
Our engineer will first carry out a £50 diagnostic to identify the problem. Following this, you'll receive a detailed written quote for the repair. Work will only proceed once you approve this quote.
Can I prevent my external tap from bursting again?
To minimise future risks, consider installing an insulated tap cover before winter, or if your tap doesn't have one, ask our engineer about fitting an internal isolation valve to drain the outdoor pipework.
What does the £50 diagnostic fee cover?
The £50 diagnostic fee covers the engineer's visit to your property, the time spent identifying the cause of the burst, and the provision of a written quotation for the necessary repairs or replacement.
Is it possible to repair a burst tap, or does it always need replacing?
In most cases, a burst external tap involving a cracked body or spout will require full replacement. Minor leaks might sometimes be repairable, but our engineer will advise the best course of action after assessment.
Ready to get it sorted?
Tell KJ what's happening and get a plan in seconds.
Photos, video and voice notes welcome. Vetted local engineers · no call-out fee · written quote before any repair.