Plumbing emergencies happen when you least expect them—burst pipes, overflowing toilets, or sudden leaks can become a nightmare if not handled quickly. The good news? Acting fast and knowing what to do can stop the damage from getting worse. Facing a plumbing emergency?
Learn what to do fast, shut off water, minimise damage, and call a plumber to prevent costly repairs. Whether it’s a minor leak or a major plumbing disaster, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you manage the situation and get things under control.
Recognising a Plumbing Emergency
Not every plumbing issue needs urgent attention, but some situations require immediate action. Here’s how to tell when it’s an emergency:
- Burst Pipes: Water gushing from walls or ceilings is a major warning sign.
- Overflowing Toilet: If flushing leads to water rising instead of draining, act fast to stop it.
- Severe Leaks: A dripping tap is one thing, but water pooling under sinks or seeping into walls is another.
- Blocked Drains: If water won’t go down at all, or worse, starts backing up, it’s time to act.
- No Water Supply: If your taps suddenly run dry, there may be a bigger issue at play.
When in doubt, it’s better to treat the situation as urgent waiting too long could lead to more damage and higher repair costs.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water
In any plumbing emergency, you should first shut off the water supply. The quicker you do this, the less damage there will be.
- Shut off the water at the source – For a specific fixture (toilet, sink, washing machine), turn the small valve near the pipe clockwise to stop the water.
- Turn off the main water supply – For a major leak or burst pipe, locate the main shut-off valve—usually found outside near the meter or inside where the main line enters your home.
- Know your shut-off points in advance – If you live in an apartment or rental, check with your landlord or building manager about where the shut-off valves are located to avoid delays during an emergency.
If you live in an apartment or rental, check with your landlord or building manager about where the shut-off valves are located.
Step 2: Minimise Water Damage
Once the water is off, focus on containing the mess:
- Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water.
- Place buckets under leaks to catch dripping water.
- Move furniture, rugs, or valuables away from the affected area.
- If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power at the switchboard for safety.
Quick action here can prevent water from seeping into walls and floors, reducing the risk of mould or structural damage.
Step 3: Call a Plumber
Some plumbing problems can wait for a scheduled visit, but in emergencies, calling a 24/7 emergency plumber is the best move.
When calling, be ready to explain:
- What’s happening (e.g., burst pipe, no water, severe blockage)
- Where the issue is located
- Whether you’ve already shut off the water
If you don’t have a trusted plumber saved on your phone, check online reviews and ratings to find a reliable one in your area.
Step 4: Avoid Quick DIY Fixes That Might Make Things Worse
When faced with a plumbing emergency, it’s tempting to try a quick fix, but some DIY attempts can backfire.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes, especially if there’s a serious blockage.
- Don’t over-tighten fittings—this can crack pipes and create bigger leaks.
- Never ignore leaks—even small drips can lead to water damage over time.
If you know how to use a plumber’s tape or a pipe clamp for a temporary fix, that’s fine, but it’s always best to let a professional handle major repairs.
Preventing Future Plumbing Emergencies
Nobody wants to deal with plumbing disasters more than once, so here are a few simple ways to reduce the risk of another emergency:
Keep Your Plumbing in Good Shape
✔ Check pipes for leaks or corrosion regularly.
✔ Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.
✔ Don’t ignore small drips—fix them before they turn into big problems.
Use Fixtures the Right Way
✔ Only flush toilet paper—no wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products.
✔ Avoid pouring grease or food scraps down the sink.
✔ Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
Have a Plumber’s Contact Ready
✔ Save the number of a trusted emergency plumber on your phone.
✔ Schedule annual plumbing check-ups to catch issues early
Be Prepared & Act Fast to Avoid Costly Repairs
A plumbing emergency can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. Stay calm, shut off the water, contain the damage, and call a professional—taking quick action can save you from expensive repairs and water damage.
For peace of mind, make sure you know where your shut-off valves are and have a plumber’s contact saved. If you’re facing a plumbing emergency right now, don’t wait—call a trusted plumber immediately to get things under control!
