Corrosion is the most common cause of burst underground water pipes. Water pipes used to be laid in the ground and constructed of iron, Over many years the iron starts to corrode and eventually will wear the pipe this, this in turn reduces its strength and the internal pressure will burst the wall of the pipe.

Roots can also be a problem, as the roots system starts to form and move through ground it can push the pipes out of line, this will normally cause a joint to fail and result in a leaking water main.

Collapsed Pipe: Pipes may collapse due to environmental changes. Construction near your home, for example, may cause the soil to shift around to the point that the increased weight upon your pipes forces it to give in and rupture. If major construction happens near your home, you may want to inform the workers of the location of your water and sewer lines.