Do these things now
- Close the main shut-off, usually on the front lower-level wall where the water pipe enters beside the meter.
- Where water has crept toward outlets or the breaker panel, stay out of it and call your utility or an electrician.
- Crack a basement laundry tub tap so the trapped pressure bleeds off.
- For the smell of gas, get everyone out, then ring the gas utility once you are outdoors.
- Then ring the shop on the number shown here.
What we treat as urgent
- Burst or split supply pipes, often after a cold snap
- Sewage backing up through floor drains or tubs
- Water heater leaking from the tank itself
- Sump pump failure with water rising in the pit
- No working toilet in the home
When the plumber arrives
We stop the source first: cap or clamp a split line, isolate a leaking heater, or clear the line that is backing up. Once the water is under control we talk through the permanent repair, which may be the same visit or a planned return with the right parts. We photograph the damage as we go, which helps if you open an insurance claim.
Further reading
See burst pipe repair and frozen pipe thawing for winter trouble, and print our emergency steps guide for the fridge door.
The short version
Tell-tale signs
- Blistered paint or a tea-coloured ring on a wall
- Turquoise crust building on a copper joint
- Faint hiss in a wall late at night
- Damp joist or rust drip below a bathroom
Kit on the van
- Stainless repair clamps for a fast stop
- Drywall saw and a shop vac for wet cavities
- Pin moisture meter and a thermal imager
- Tube cutters, propane torch, lead-free solder
How we go about it
- Saw out the bad length and sweat or crimp in new pipe
- Bring the line back up to pressure and watch it dry
- Leave the hole open a day if the cavity is soaked
- Close the closest valve, or the main if none holds
Your questions, answered plainly
Should I call my insurer first or a tradesperson?
Stop the water first and call a plumber; then notify your insurer promptly with photos.
Is no hot water an emergency?
It can be in deep winter or with infants or elderly people at home. Tell us when you call.
