A plumbing emergency can catch anyone off guard. One minute everything seems fine, and the next you’ve got water pouring where it shouldn’t be. Whether it’s a sudden leak, a burst pipe, or a backed‑up toilet, knowing what to do before the plumber arrives can help protect your home from serious damage.
For homeowners dealing with unexpected leaks or water damage, knowing your next step is key. Taking the right actions early and reaching out for professional emergency plumbing support could make all the difference in minimising costly repairs.
This guide walks you through the most important steps to take right away. These are simple, practical actions you can do yourself.
You don’t need any tools or plumbing experience, just a calm approach and a little guidance.
And if you’re ever unsure, remember that EVR Plumbing is only a call away, ready to help with fast, expert service.
Is this a plumbing emergency? Signs you shouldn’t ignore
Not all plumbing issues need urgent attention, but some absolutely do. The sooner you spot the signs of a plumbing emergency, the better your chances of limiting damage.
Look out for:
- Sudden water pooling under sinks, in bathrooms, or on the floor
- A loud pop followed by leaking water (which could signal a burst pipe)
- Water coming from strange places like walls or light fixtures
- The smell of gas near hot water systems
- Complete loss of water supply or serious drainage issues
Consistently reading your water usage can help you find hidden leaks early, and learning about detecting water leaks from official water meter guidance can help identify issues before they become emergencies.
If something seems wrong, it’s better to act quickly. You can always call EVR Plumbing for advice if you’re unsure whether your situation needs immediate attention.
How to shut off your water quickly and safely
When water is leaking or flooding, your first job is to shut off water to the affected area or to your whole home.
Here’s how to do it:
- Find your main water shut‑off valve. This is usually located where the water line enters your home.
- Turn it off by turning the valve clockwise.
- For smaller leaks, use the local shut‑off valve under the sink or behind the toilet.
Stopping the water flow gives you a chance to catch your breath and prevents more damage while you wait for your plumber.
When to turn off gas or electricity during a plumbing emergency
Some plumbing emergencies involve more than just water. If water is near your electrical outlets or gas appliances, it’s important to act with care.
- If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply and leave the home immediately.
- If water is close to power points or electrical appliances, switch off the power at the main circuit board if it’s safe to do so.
If you’re unsure, don’t risk it. Wait outside and call EVR Plumbing or emergency services to guide you safely through the next steps.
Temporary ways to stop a water leak until help arrives
While waiting for your plumber, you might be able to stop water leak temporarily to limit further damage.
Here are a few things you can try:
- Wrap a leaking pipe with an old towel or heavy cloth to absorb water
- Use plumber’s tape or duct tape to hold off slow drips or minor cracks
- Place a bucket or large bowl under the leak to catch water
These fixes won’t last long, but they buy you time. For anything more than a small drip, trust a professional. The team at your local, trusted plumbing professionals is trained to handle emergency leaks fast and effectively.
What to move and protect while you wait for the plumber
Water damage can spread fast. Once you’ve stopped the water flow, it’s smart to protect your belongings and limit the impact.
Here’s what you can do:
- Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from wet areas
- Use towels or mops to soak up standing water
- Place foil or plastic under the legs of furniture that can’t be moved
These quick actions can save you from bigger repairs later and make it easier for the plumber to access the affected area.
Who to call when you need an emergency plumber fast
If the situation feels urgent, don’t wait. Call an emergency plumber as soon as you can.
When you call, be ready to share:
- Where the leak or problem is happening
- What you’ve already done to manage it
- Any safety concerns like nearby electricity or gas
For fast, professional help, call EVR Plumbing, your trusted emergency plumbing experts. We understand how disruptive plumbing issues can be, which is why our licensed team is always ready to respond quickly, talk you through what to do, and get the job done right the first time.
With EVR Plumbing, you’re not just getting a tradie, you’re getting a reliable partner who shows up on time, communicates clearly, and treats your home with care.
Why you should take photos and document the damage
After things settle down, take a few moments to document what happened. This helps if you need to make an insurance claim or want a record of the incident.
What to capture:
- Clear photos of water damage, leaks, or broken parts
- A list of any affected personal items or furniture
- Notes about what happened and when
Having this info ready also helps your plumber understand the full scope of the issue, especially if it’s not fully visible by the time they arrive.
What to do while waiting for your plumber to arrive
Once you’ve done what you can, it’s time to wait for the plumber, but you don’t need to feel helpless during this time.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Keep pets and kids away from wet or unsafe areas
- Stay close by so you’re ready when the plumber arrives
- Keep your phone nearby and fully charged
It’s also a good time to review any warranties or insurance policies you might need to reference later. A little preparation can go a long way.
Call EVR Plumbing When You Need Help Fast
No one wants to deal with a plumbing emergency, but being prepared makes all the difference. By knowing how to shut off water, manage a burst pipe, and stop water leak temporarily, you can take control of the situation and reduce the damage to your home.
But you don’t have to face it alone. Whether it’s the middle of the day or after hours, EVR Plumbing is here to help with fast, friendly, and reliable emergency plumbing services.
Schedule an appointment with our expert plumbers today and let us take care of your plumbing needs, so you can get back to what matters most.