A burst water main is never something to ignore. Whether it is water bubbling up through your driveway, flooding a road, or reducing water pressure inside your home, acting quickly can prevent serious damage. For homeowners across Sussex, knowing how to report a burst water main correctly can save time, money, and unnecessary stress.
If you notice signs of a burst or leaking main, your first step should always be to report burst water main issues immediately to the correct authority. In some cases, you may also need professional help for private pipe repairs or emergency leak detection.
This guide explains what a burst water main is, why fast reporting matters, who to contact in Sussex, and when to involve specialist contractors like Sussex Water Mains.
What Is a Burst Water Main?
A burst water main is a rupture or failure in an underground pipe that supplies clean water to homes, businesses, and public areas. These pipes operate under constant pressure, so even a small crack can release thousands of litres of water in a short period.
In Sussex, burst water mains are commonly caused by:
- Ageing pipework and corrosion
- Ground movement or subsidence
- Freezing and thawing cycles in winter
- Increased water pressure during peak demand
- Nearby construction or excavation work
According to UK water authorities, older properties with outdated supply pipes are at higher risk, particularly where lead or galvanised pipes are still in use.
Why Reporting a Burst Water Main Quickly Is So Important
Delaying a burst water main report can lead to serious consequences for both homeowners and the wider community.
Key risks of late reporting include:
- Property damage
Flooding can weaken foundations, damage driveways, and enter basements or ground floors. - Road and pavement hazards
Standing water can undermine surfaces, increasing the risk of potholes and collapse. - Water wastage
Thousands of litres of treated drinking water can be lost every hour. - Health and safety concerns
Burst mains can contaminate clean water supplies or expose electrical hazards.
Prompt action helps water companies prioritise repairs and reduce disruption.
How to Report a Burst Water Main in Sussex
If you are wondering how to report burst water main issues in Sussex, the process is straightforward once you know who is responsible.
Step 1: Check If the Pipe Is Public or Private
This is the most important step.
- Public water mains
Usually located under roads, pavements, or public land. These are maintained by the water supplier. - Private supply pipes
Run from the property boundary into your home. These are the homeowner’s responsibility.
If the leak is on your land or serves only your property, you may need professional help, such as water leak detection services, rather than contacting the water company directly.
Step 2: Identify the Correct Water Supplier
Most areas of Sussex are covered by one of the following:
- Southern Water
- South East Water
You can confirm your supplier by checking your water bill or the Ofwat website. Reporting to the correct company avoids delays.
Step 3: Make the Burst Water Main Report
For urgent situations such as road flooding or major water loss:
- Call the supplier’s 24/7 emergency number
- Use their official website to report online if phone lines are busy
Both Southern Water and South East Water operate round-the-clock emergency services.
For non-urgent leaks:
- Use the online reporting form
- Provide accurate location and description details
Step 4: Provide Clear and Accurate Information
When reporting a burst water main, include:
- Exact location (address, nearby landmarks)
- Size and severity of the leak
- Whether roads, pavements, or properties are affected
- When you first noticed the issue
- Any immediate safety risks
Clear information helps engineers attend faster.
Step 5: Follow Up if Needed
If the situation worsens or no response is received, follow up with the reference number provided. Multiple reports often help prioritise urgent cases.
What Information You’ll Be Asked For
When submitting a report burst water main request, you may be asked for:
- Street name and nearest house number
- Description of the leak (trickle, flowing, flooding)
- Time first noticed
- Safety concerns, such as traffic or electrical risks
- Optional contact details
You can report anonymously, but leaving contact details can speed up resolution.
Who to Contact for Different Water Emergencies
| Situation | Who to Contact | Notes |
| Public water main burst | Water supplier | Responsible for repairs |
| Private supply pipe leak | Licensed contractor | Homeowner responsibility |
| Road flooding | Water supplier + council | Shared responsibility |
| Electrical danger | 999 | Immediate risk only |
| Repeated pipe failures | Specialist contractor | Long-term solution |
If the leak is within your property boundary, a specialist offering 24/7 burst pipe repair in Sussex may be required.
What to Do While Waiting for Repairs
After you have completed a burst water main report, safety should be your priority.
Stay safe by following these steps:
- Keep a distance from fast-flowing water
- Warn neighbours and pedestrians
- Avoid driving through floodwater
- Remove valuables from affected areas
- Turn off the electricity if water enters your home
Never attempt to repair a public water main yourself.
If the leak is on your private pipe, contact emergency pipe repair specialists immediately to prevent further damage.
Public vs Private Water Mains: Who Is Responsible?
Understanding liability avoids confusion and delays.
| Pipe Type | Location | Responsibility |
| Public main | Roads and pavements | Water supplier |
| Private supply pipe | Boundary to home | Homeowner |
| Shared supply | Multiple properties | Shared responsibility |
Older homes may benefit from upgrading water mains pipe systems to prevent recurring issues.
Common Mistakes When Reporting a Burst Water Main
To ensure faster response, avoid these errors:
- Waiting too long to report
- Contacting the council instead of the water company
- Providing vague location details
- Assuming someone else has already reported it
- Ignoring leaks on private property
Small leaks can escalate quickly, especially in older pipe networks.
When Should You Call Emergency Services?
Most burst water mains are handled by water companies. However, call 999 if:
- A road is collapsing
- There is a serious electrical hazard
- Flooding threatens life or structural safety
For all other situations, report directly to the water supplier first.
When to Call Sussex Water Mains
If the burst involves private pipework, repeated leaks, or poor water pressure, you may need a professional assessment.
Sussex homeowners often contact specialists for:
- Water main replacement in Sussex
- Moling services in Sussex to avoid digging
- Replace old lead pipes in Sussex
- Water meter installation
- Long-term leak prevention solutions
Working with a trusted water mains company in Sussex ensures the problem is fixed properly, not just temporarily patched.
FAQs About Reporting a Burst Water Main
Is it free to report a burst water main in the UK?
Yes, reporting to your water supplier is always free.
Can I report a burst water main anonymously?
Yes, but providing contact details can help if more information is needed.
How long do repairs usually take?
Emergency repairs often begin within hours. Complex cases may take one to three days.
Will I lose my water supply?
Temporary pressure loss or shut-offs are possible during repairs.
Who pays for damage caused by a public main?
Water companies may compensate for proven damage caused by their infrastructure.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to report a burst water main in Sussex puts you in control during a stressful situation. Fast reporting protects your property, your neighbours, and the wider community.
If your issue involves private pipes, ongoing leaks, or ageing infrastructure, professional help makes all the difference. For expert support, trusted workmanship, and proven results, contact Sussex Water Mains today and get your water supply restored safely and efficiently.
Need help now?
Visit Sussex Water Mains to speak with experienced water main specialists and read real customer reviews of water mains in Sussex.