Short answer
In a plumbing emergency, turn off the water first: use the isolation valve near the fixture or the main valve for the property. Keep away from wet electrics and switch off power to the area if it is safe. Move belongings, contain the water, take photos, then call a 24/7 plumber.
Step by step
- Turn off the water. Look for the small isolation valve on the pipe under the sink, behind the toilet or near the water heater. If you cannot find one, close the main valve for your apartment or villa.
- Make the area safe. If water is near sockets, appliances or light fittings, switch off the electricity to that area at the breaker panel, but only if you can reach it without standing in water.
- Stop the spread. Use towels and buckets, and move rugs, furniture and electronics out of the way.
- Open taps elsewhere to drain water left in the pipes, if a pipe has burst.
- Take photos and a video for your landlord, building management or insurer.
- Call a 24/7 plumber and describe what happened and what you have shut off.
Where to find the main water valve
In Dubai apartments the main valve is often in a cupboard near the kitchen, in a utility area, or in a service shaft in the corridor. In villas it is usually near where the supply enters the property, close to the water tank or pump. It is worth finding yours before you need it.
If water is coming from the apartment above
Contact building security or management straight away so they can reach the unit above and shut off its water. Keep photos of the damage on your side.
What not to do
- Do not use electrical appliances in a flooded area
- Do not keep flushing a toilet that is overflowing
- Do not pour chemicals into a drain that is backing up
- Do not open walls or ceilings to look for the leak yourself
Related service
Burst pipes, overflowing toilets and urgent leaks, any time of day or night.
