What to Do During a Plumbing Emergency (Before the Plumber Arrives)

Plumbing emergencies rarely come with warning. A burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or sudden water heater leak can quickly flood your home, damage belongings, and create safety hazards. While calling a professional plumber should always be your first step, knowing what to do in the moments before help arrives can make a major difference.

Quick, informed action can limit water damage, protect your property, and reduce repair costs. This guide walks you through the essential steps every homeowner should know when a plumbing emergency strikes.

What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency?

Not every plumbing issue is an emergency, but some situations require immediate attention.

Common plumbing emergencies include

• Burst or leaking pipes

• Sewer backups

• Overflowing toilets

• Water heater failures

• Gas line leaks

• Flooding from appliances

If water is actively leaking or sewage is backing up, act immediately.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

Stopping water flow is the most important step.

Know where to shut off

• Main water shut-off valve

• Individual fixture shut-off valves

• Appliance shut-off valves

Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. If you cannot locate it, ask a plumber during routine maintenance to show you.

Step 2: Shut Off the Water Heater

If the emergency involves hot water or a burst hot-water line, shut down the water heater.

Why this matters

• Prevents overheating

• Reduces pressure buildup

• Avoids further damage

For electric heaters, turn off the breaker. For gas heaters, switch the gas valve to the off position.

Step 3: Turn Off Electricity If Necessary

Water and electricity are dangerous together.

Turn off power if

• Water is near outlets

• Flooding affects electrical appliances

• Water is pooling near the breaker panel

Always prioritize personal safety.

Step 4: Drain Remaining Water

Relieve pressure in the system.

How

• Open cold water faucets

• Flush toilets

• Drain hoses if safe

This reduces water flow and limits damage.

Step 5: Contain the Leak

While you wait for professional help, contain water as much as possible.

Temporary measures

• Place buckets under leaks

• Use towels to absorb water

• Wrap small pipe leaks with cloth or tape (temporary only)

Avoid permanent repairs—these are short-term solutions only.

Step 6: Clear the Area

Protect your belongings.

Move

• Furniture

• Rugs

• Electronics

• Personal items

Elevate items when possible to avoid water exposure.

Step 7: Ventilate the Area

Moisture leads to mold quickly.

Open

• Windows

• Doors

Use fans if safe to do so. Drying the area early reduces long-term damage.

Step 8: Avoid Using Plumbing Fixtures

Do not run water during an emergency unless instructed.

Why

• Increases pressure

• Worsens leaks

• Causes backups

Wait until the plumber gives clearance.

Step 9: Document the Damage

If safe, document damage for insurance.

Take

• Photos

• Videos

• Notes

This helps with insurance claims and repair planning.

What NOT to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

Avoid actions that can worsen the situation.

Do not

• Use chemical drain cleaners

• Attempt complex repairs

• Ignore gas smells

• Delay calling a professional

Improper actions can cause more damage.

Why Professional Emergency Plumbing Service Matters

Licensed plumbers:

• Diagnose problems accurately

• Use proper tools

• Restore systems safely

• Prevent repeat emergencies

Emergency repairs protect both property and health.

How to Prepare for Future Plumbing Emergencies

Preparation reduces panic and damage.

Preparation tips

• Know shut-off valve locations

• Schedule regular inspections

• Replace aging pipes

• Keep emergency numbers accessible

Prepared homeowners respond faster and more effectively.

Final Thoughts

Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but knowing what to do before a plumber arrives can significantly limit damage and costs. Acting quickly, safely, and strategically helps protect your home until professional help resolves the problem.

Every homeowner should understand these steps—it’s one of the simplest ways to safeguard your property from unexpected plumbing disasters.