What Do I Do If My Washing Machine Hose Burst?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Your First Three Emergency Steps
Your immediate focus is stopping the flow of water. Locate the water supply valves on the wall behind your washing machine. Turn them clockwise to shut off the water. If you cannot find a dedicated valve, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your home to stop the flooding completely.
Next, unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet to eliminate any shock hazard. Avoid stepping into standing water if the outlet or the machine's cord is wet. After securing the area, start removing as much water as you can with towels, a mop, or a wet vacuum. This can help minimize the initial damage.
Why Quick Professional Drying Matters
Water from a burst hose can spread quickly under flooring and into wall cavities. In a humid subtropical climate with hot rainy summers and an Atlantic hurricane season, this moisture creates a perfect environment for mold to grow in as little as twenty-four to forty-eight hours. The hidden dampness can also weaken structural materials like subflooring and drywall.
The pros have industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers to extract moisture you cannot see or reach. They use moisture meters to track the drying progress inside your walls and under floors. This thorough drying helps prevent long-term problems like warped floors, stained ceilings in rooms below, and persistent musty odors from mold growth.
What the Restoration Process Involves
The local water damage pros will start with a detailed inspection to map the extent of the moisture. They will determine which materials are salvageable and which need removal. This often includes pulling up soaked carpet, removing damaged drywall sections, and drying out the subfloor and framing with specialized equipment.
The drying phase is monitored daily until all materials reach a safe moisture level. Once drying is complete, repairs can begin. This may involve replacing drywall, reinstalling flooring, and repainting. The goal is to return your laundry area and any affected adjacent rooms to their pre-damage condition.
- Inspection with moisture meters and thermal cameras.
- Water extraction using truck-mounted or portable pumps.
- Removal of unsalvageable materials like wet drywall or padding.
- Strategic placement of air movers and dehumidifiers.
- Daily monitoring to ensure drying goals are met.
- Coordination of repairs for floors, walls, and baseboards.
Handling Insurance and Repair Costs
Contact your insurance company promptly to report the incident and start a claim. Take clear photos and videos of the damage, the burst hose, and any standing water before you start cleaning up. Keep records of all your communications and any receipts for expenses related to the incident, as these may be needed for your claim.
Repair costs often range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the water volume and affected areas. The final cost depends on the extent of structural damage, the size of the area, and the materials needing replacement. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Discuss the scope of repairs with your insurance adjuster and the pros you hire.
Preventing a Future Burst Hose
Inspect your washing machine hoses regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks, bulges, or brittleness. Consider replacing standard rubber hoses with braided stainless steel supply lines, which are more resistant to bursting. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the washing machine's shutoff valve is located and how to use it in an emergency.
Turn off the water supply valves when the machine is not in use for extended periods, like during a vacation. Replace hoses every three to five years, even if they look fine, as internal degradation is not always visible. Keeping the location of your shutoff valve written down can be helpful for guests or family members during a stressful event.
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Call (941) 352-9167 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (941) 352-9167Frequently asked questions
Can I clean up the water damage myself?
You can remove surface water, but professional drying is crucial for hidden moisture in walls and subfloors. Inadequate drying leads to mold and structural decay. The pros have the tools to properly dry these areas, which is difficult to achieve with household fans and dehumidifiers.
How long does the drying process take?
Drying typically takes two to five days, but it depends on the amount of water, the materials affected, and indoor humidity levels. The pros monitor moisture daily. Rushing this process can trap moisture and cause mold, so they ensure everything is thoroughly dry before starting repairs.
Will my homeowners insurance cover this?
Many policies cover sudden, accidental water discharge from a burst appliance hose. You will likely pay your deductible. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Document the damage thoroughly and report the claim to your insurance company as soon as possible after the event.