What to do in a plumbing emergency
What To Do in a Plumbing Emergency (Step-by-Step Guide)
Plumbing emergencies are stressful — but knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make an enormous difference to the outcome and the cost of repairs. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide for the most common plumbing emergencies.
Burst Pipe or Major Water Leak
Step 1: Turn off the water immediately at the main stopcock. In most homes, this is located near the water meter — usually in the front yard, under the kitchen sink, or in a garage. Step 2: Turn off your hot water system to prevent damage to the unit. Step 3: Turn off electricity in any areas where water is near electrical outlets or fittings. Step 4: Open all taps to drain remaining water from the pipes and reduce pressure. Step 5: Call a licensed emergency plumber. Mop up water while you wait to minimise floor and wall damage.
Flooding or Overflowing Toilet
If a toilet is overflowing, turn off the isolating valve behind the toilet (or the main stopcock if there isn't one). Do not attempt to flush again. If water is entering from outside — stormwater or sewer overflow — stay clear of the water, which may be contaminated, and call a plumber immediately. Document the damage with photos for insurance purposes.
Gas Leak
Do not touch any electrical switches — even to turn lights off. Do not use your mobile phone inside the building. Leave all doors open as you exit to allow gas to disperse. Once outside, call your gas supplier's emergency line and a licensed gas fitter. Do not re-enter until cleared by a professional. If you cannot smell gas but suspect a leak (hissing sound, dead vegetation), follow the same steps.
No Hot Water
Loss of hot water isn't a safety emergency, but it can be urgent — particularly for families with young children or in cold weather. Check that the unit is still powered (check the circuit breaker for electric units) and that the gas supply is still connected (try a gas burner for gas units). If the system has no obvious fault but isn't producing hot water, call a plumber. Same-day service is available in most cases.
Where to Find Your Main Stopcock
Knowing where your main water stopcock is before an emergency is one of the most useful things you can do as a homeowner. Check near the water meter at the front of the property, under the kitchen sink, in the garage, or in a utility area. If you can't find it, ask your plumber to show you at your next service visit. Being able to turn it off in the first 60 seconds of a burst pipe can save thousands of dollars in damage.
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