Emergency Plumbing: What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives

When a plumbing emergency strikes, every minute counts. A burst pipe can release gallons of water per minute, turning a manageable problem into a catastrophe in the time it takes to panic. The actions you take in the first few minutes of a plumbing emergency can mean the difference between minor cleanup and major reconstruction.

This guide covers the critical first steps for common plumbing emergencies. Bookmark it, share it with your family, and review it now—before you need it.

First Response: The Universal Steps

Regardless of the type of plumbing emergency, these steps apply to almost every situation:

Step 1: Stay Calm

Panic leads to poor decisions. Take a breath, assess the situation, and act methodically.

Step 2: Stop the Water

The faster you stop water flow, the less damage occurs. Know your shut-off options:

• Local shut-off: Most fixtures have individual shut-off valves (under sinks, behind toilets, near appliances)
• Main shut-off: Stops all water to your home; typically located where the main line enters your house or near the water meter
• Street shut-off: At the water meter; may require a special tool (water meter key)

Step 3: Turn Off Your Water Heater

If you've shut off the main water supply:

• Turn off your water heater to prevent damage from heating an empty tank
• Gas: Set to "pilot" or turn off the gas valve
• Electric: Flip the circuit breaker

Step 4: Address Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination:

• If water is near electrical outlets, panels, or appliances, shut off power at the breaker
• Don't wade through standing water to reach the panel—call an electrician if necessary
• Never touch electrical devices while standing in water

Step 5: Call for Help

Once you've controlled the immediate situation, call a plumber. Have ready:

• Your address
• A description of the problem
• What you've done so far
• Whether water is still flowing

Specific Emergency Responses

Burst Pipe

Signs: Water spraying, pooling water, water stains spreading rapidly, sound of rushing water

Immediate actions:

1. Shut off the main water supply immediately
2. Open faucets to drain remaining water from pipes
3. Turn off electricity if water is near electrical components
4. If accessible, apply a pipe clamp or wrap the burst area with rubber and a hose clamp as a temporary fix
5. Start removing water with towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum
6. Move furniture and valuables away from the affected area
7. Set up fans to begin drying (after power safety is confirmed)

Temporary repair options:

• Pipe repair clamp: A split metal sleeve that clamps over the break
• Rubber and clamp: Wrap rubber (like a bicycle inner tube) around the pipe and secure with hose clamps
• Pipe repair tape: Self-fusing silicone tape can provide a temporary seal
• Epoxy putty: For pinhole leaks, can provide a short-term fix

These are temporary measures only—professional repair is still needed.

Overflowing Toilet

Signs: Water rising in the bowl, water spilling onto the floor, continuous running

Immediate actions:

1. Don't flush again! This only adds more water
2. Remove the tank lid
3. Push down on the flapper valve to stop water from entering the bowl
4. Lift the float ball or float cup to stop the fill valve
5. Turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet (clockwise to close)
6. If the valve won't turn, shut off the main water supply
7. Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to remove spilled water
8. Attempt to plunge once water stops rising

Prevention tip: Consider installing a toilet overflow alarm that alerts you before water reaches the rim.

Clogged Main Sewer Line

Signs: Multiple drains backing up simultaneously, gurgling sounds from toilets, water backing up in tubs when toilets flush, sewage odor

Immediate actions:

1. Stop using all water fixtures
2. Don't run washing machine, dishwasher, or flush toilets
3. If you have a main sewer cleanout (usually a capped pipe near your house), a plumber can access it for diagnosis
4. Don't attempt to clear a main line yourself—this requires professional equipment
5. Call a plumber immediately; main line issues can cause sewage backup into your home

Major Leak Under Sink

Signs: Water spraying from supply lines, dripping from drain connections, pooling in cabinet

Immediate actions:

1. Turn off the shut-off valves under the sink (clockwise)
2. If valves don't work, turn off the main supply
3. Place a bucket under the leak to catch water
4. Remove items from under the sink to prevent water damage
5. Check if the leak is from supply lines (pressurized) or drain (only when water runs)

Water Heater Failure

Signs: Water pooling around base, rust-colored water, rumbling noises, no hot water

Immediate actions:

1. Turn off the power supply:
   • Gas: Turn the gas valve to "off"
   • Electric: Flip the circuit breaker
2. Turn off the cold water supply to the heater
3. If actively leaking, attach a hose to the drain valve and drain to a floor drain or outside
4. Don't attempt repairs on a gas water heater yourself—gas leaks are dangerous

Gas Smell Near Water Heater

This is a life-safety emergency!

1. Don't turn on any lights, appliances, or create sparks
2. Don't use your phone inside the house
3. Open windows if you can do so quickly
4. Leave the house immediately
5. Call 911 or your gas company from outside/neighbor's house
6. Don't return until cleared by authorities

Know Your Shut-Off Valves Now

Before an emergency happens, locate and test these valves:

Main Water Shut-Off

• Location: Where the main water line enters your home—typically in a basement, crawl space, utility room, or near the water heater
• Type: Gate valve (round handle) or ball valve (lever handle)
• Test: Turn it off and on to ensure it works; some valves seize from disuse
• Label it: Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is

Individual Fixture Shut-Offs

• Toilets: Behind and near the floor
• Sinks: Under the sink, usually two valves (hot and cold)
• Washing machine: Behind the unit, usually two valves
• Dishwasher: Under the kitchen sink
• Water heater: On the cold water inlet pipe

Build an Emergency Plumbing Kit

Keep these supplies accessible:

• Plungers (one cup-style for sinks, one flange-style for toilets)
• Pipe wrench and adjustable wrench
• Bucket and towels
• Pipe repair tape (self-fusing silicone tape)
• Pipe clamps
• Flashlight
• Your plumber's emergency number
• Water meter key (if your main shut-off is at the street)

Document for Insurance

After controlling the emergency:

• Take photos and videos of all damage
• Keep damaged items until your insurance company says you can dispose of them
• Document all emergency repairs and expenses
• Contact your insurance company promptly

The Bottom Line

In a plumbing emergency, preparedness is everything. Know where your shut-off valves are, keep basic supplies on hand, and stay calm. The faster you stop the water, the less damage you'll face.

Remember: some emergencies are beyond DIY. Don't hesitate to call a professional—and if you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.