A plumbing emergency is easier to handle when you know the first three moves: stop the water, protect the property, and call for help. This checklist is written for homeowners and renters who need to act quickly without making the damage worse.
Shut off the water if it is safe
For a leaking fixture, shut off the nearest supply valve. For a burst pipe or an uncontrolled leak, shut off the main water valve. In many homes it is near the water meter, in a basement, garage, or utility closet.
If you cannot find the main valve, call the water utility or your landlord. Do not spend time searching while water is running into the house. If the leak is near electrical equipment, do not enter standing water; shut off power at the breaker only if it is safe to reach.
Protect the area and document the damage
Move furniture, rugs, and electronics away from the water. Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum if it is safe. Place aluminum foil or plastic under legs of furniture that cannot be moved.
Take photos and short videos before cleanup. Document the source, the affected area, and any damaged items. This is useful for a landlord, insurer, or repair professional.
Know what counts as an emergency
- Emergency: burst pipe, sewage backup, no water, gas smell, or water near electrical panels.
- Urgent: a steady leak, a toilet that will not stop running, or no hot water.
- Can wait: a dripping faucet, a slow drain, or a minor fixture issue.
If you smell gas, leave the building and call the gas utility or emergency services first. Do not flip switches or use a phone inside if a gas leak is suspected.
What to tell the plumber
Describe the problem, when it started, what you have already tried, and whether the water is shut off. Mention the property type, access details, and any known pipe material or prior repairs.
Ask when someone can arrive and what the call-out or diagnostic fee covers. Be clear about the urgency without exaggerating; the provider needs accurate information to prioritize.
What not to do
Do not pour chemical drain cleaner into a main line backup or a completely blocked drain. Do not keep running water to test the leak. Do not ignore water that has reached drywall, insulation, or flooring; hidden moisture can lead to mold.
Do not attempt to repair a gas line or a major water line yourself. Those are jobs for a qualified professional.
Frequently asked questions
Where is my main water shut-off valve?
It is often near the water meter, in a basement, garage, utility closet, or outside near the foundation. Find it before an emergency and label it.
Should I call a plumber or my landlord first?
If you rent, contact the landlord or property manager according to your lease. If the problem is actively causing damage and you cannot reach them, call a plumber and document everything.
Can I use a wet/dry vacuum on a water leak?
Only if the area is safe and there is no electrical hazard. Never use a regular household vacuum on standing water.
Need help now? Call (877) 471-2907 and describe the situation. The line is answered 24 hours a day.
About this guide: This information is general and educational. It is not a substitute for an on-site assessment, a licensed professional's advice, or your local building code. Verify licensing and insurance directly with any provider you hire.