Water around a washing machine or dishwasher can come from the appliance, its water connection, its drain or nearby plumbing. Do not assume replacing the appliance will solve it. First make the area safe, stop further use and describe where and when the water appeared.
Keep away from wet electrical equipment
Do not stand in water to unplug an appliance or reach a switch. If the plug, socket, appliance controls or switchboard may be wet, keep clear and seek professional guidance. Water near electricity can turn a small-looking leak into an urgent safety problem.
Only close an appliance water valve if you can reach it safely and know what it controls. Do not drag a heavy appliance through water or strain its connected hoses to reach something behind it. Keep children and pets away from the affected area.
Describe when the leak occurred
Was the appliance idle, filling, washing or draining? Did water appear behind it, beneath it or from an adjacent sink or floor waste? Note whether the water continued after the cycle stopped. These observations help distinguish an appliance fault from a connection or drainage issue.
Take photos from a dry, safe position. Include the surrounding cabinet or room so the team can understand access. Do not restart the appliance merely to obtain a video of the leak.
Who should investigate?
A plumber can assess accessible water-supply and drainage connections. An appliance technician may be needed if the fault is within the machine itself. Tell the booking contact exactly what you saw so they can discuss the most appropriate first visit.
Have the appliance make and model available if you can read them without moving it or entering an unsafe area. If it was recently installed or serviced, keep the installation or service details. Ask whether disconnecting or moving the machine is part of the planned work.
Water under cabinets needs attention
The visible puddle may not show the full affected area. Water can reach under a kickboard, beneath a floor finish or into a neighbouring room. Photograph any swelling or staining that becomes visible, and ask whether a moisture assessment is needed after the source is addressed.
Do not use a household vacuum cleaner to remove water. Avoid setting up electrical drying equipment until the area is confirmed safe and the suitability of the drying approach is understood. If drainage water or sewage may be involved, keep clear and explain that when booking.
Before putting the appliance back into use
Ask what failed, what was repaired and whether the appliance itself has been cleared for use. Replacing a hose does not answer every question if electrical parts became wet or the drain is still obstructed. Keep the findings and any repair details for the property owner or appliance service provider.
For a rental or apartment, notify the property manager and building contact where other rooms, neighbouring units or common areas are affected. Call Restored Right Group with your suburb, the appliance involved and whether water is still escaping to discuss urgent plumbing and water-damage support.
Common questions
Should I pull the washing machine out immediately?
Not if doing so brings you into contact with water or electrical hazards, or strains connected hoses. Explain the access issue when you call.
Will a plumber repair the appliance itself?
That depends on the fault. Plumbing connections and drainage may need a plumber; an internal appliance fault may require an appliance technician.
Need help with your property?
Call with your suburb, what happened and whether water is still escaping. Confirm availability and the proposed first-visit scope when booking.
General property guidance; the right response depends on the conditions on site. Keep clear of unsafe areas and call 000 for immediate danger to life.