What to Do About a Burst Pipe in Shrewsbury (and Who Pays: Severn Trent or You?)

General guidance based on published sources; not a quote or legal advice. Last reviewed October 2026. Check Severn Trent's website for current contact details.

Do this first

1. Turn off your internal stop tap (often under the kitchen sink). If it is seized or you cannot reach it, contact Severn Trent for help isolating the supply.
2. Open cold taps to drain the system; do not turn on hot taps if you have a tank-fed system without advice.
3. If water is near electrics, switch off at the consumer unit only if it is safe to reach. If in doubt, call an electrician or emergency services.
4. Take photos for your insurer, move belongings, and call a plumber.

Severn Trent or you?

Shrewsbury water is supplied by Severn Trent Water. As a general rule they are responsible for public mains and the pipe up to your boundary or external stop tap; the pipe from there into your home is normally the homeowner's. If the leak is visible in the road or pavement, report it to Severn Trent.

Typical cost

Published local data suggests an average emergency plumbing job around £229, ranging from about £85 to £472, with out-of-hours surcharges possible. Parts are often extra.

Gas smell?

That is a different emergency: call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Need a plumber? Call (555) 010-0199.

FAQ

Who do I call about a burst pipe in Shrewsbury?

If the leak is on a public water main in the road or pavement, report it to Severn Trent Water (their published 24-hour line at time of writing is 0800 783 4444; check their website). If it is on the pipework inside your property, turn off your stop tap and call a plumber.

Who is responsible for the water pipe to my house?

Generally Severn Trent looks after the mains and the communication pipe up to the boundary or external stop tap, and the homeowner is responsible for the supply pipe from there into the property. Shared supply pipes may be shared responsibility. Check Severn Trent's current guidance for your situation.

What should I do first when a pipe bursts?

Turn off the internal stop tap, open cold taps to drain the system, switch off electrics if water is near them and it is safe, then photograph damage for insurance and call a plumber.

How much does an emergency plumber cost in Shrewsbury?

Published figures vary. One national provider reports an average emergency job near £229 in the Shrewsbury area (range about £85 to £472). Out-of-hours surcharges are common, so ask for the call-out charge and hourly rate first.

Will insurance cover a burst pipe?

Often home insurance covers escape of water, but terms and excesses vary. Check your policy and contact your insurer promptly.