Plumbing emergencies can strike when you least expect them—and they often happen at the worst possible time. Whether it’s a burst pipe at midnight or a major water leak during the holidays, knowing what to do before the plumber arrives can save you time, stress, and money. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some practical emergency plumbing tips to help you take action fast, minimise damage, and stay safe.
Common Plumbing Emergencies at Home
Plumbing emergencies range from small annoyances to serious problems. Some of the most common include:
- Burst pipe emergency
- Overflowing toilets
- Sudden water leaks
- Blocked drains
- No hot water
- Broken taps or fittings
Knowing how to respond quickly can make a massive difference in limiting the damage.
Step One: Shut Off the Water Valve
The first and most important thing to do in any plumbing emergency is to shut off the water valve. This cuts off the water supply to stop the flow and reduce the risk of further damage. If you’re dealing with a burst pipe or large leak, locate your home’s main water valve—usually near the water meter or out the front—and turn it off.
If the problem is isolated (like a leaking tap or toilet), you may be able to shut off the water to that specific fixture using the mini tap underneath.
Step Two: Assess the Situation and Stay Safe
Before diving into any DIY plumbing emergency steps, ensure it’s safe to be near the affected area. Avoid standing water near electrical appliances and wear sturdy shoes if water has spilled onto the floor. Once safe, inspect where the issue is coming from and how much water is involved.
Step Three: How to Stop a Water Leak Temporarily
If you can see the source of the leak—like a crack in a pipe or a broken tap fitting—there are a few temporary plumbing fixes you can try:
- Use waterproof tape or a pipe repair clamp as a short-term seal.
- Catch leaking water in buckets or containers to prevent water damage.
- Lay down towels or absorbent cloths around the area to soak up spills.
- Open windows and doors or use a fan to help dry the area out.
These steps can buy you valuable time before the emergency plumber arrives.
Step Four: Prevent Water Damage to Your Home
The sooner you act, the better chance you have of avoiding costly repairs. Here’s how to prevent water damage in a plumbing emergency:
- Move furniture and electronics out of the affected area.
- Unplug electrical appliances nearby to avoid potential hazards.
- Dry surfaces with towels and use mops to soak up water.
- Take photos of the damage for insurance purposes.
If water has leaked into walls or ceilings, it’s best to wait for professional help to avoid hidden mould and structural issues.
Step Five: Call an Emergency Plumber Near Me
When in doubt—or if the situation is beyond a quick DIY fix—it’s time to search for an emergency plumber near me. A qualified professional can assess the damage, carry out repairs, and check that your plumbing system is safe.
At Budget Plumbing Centre we always recommend calling in the experts when needed. Whether it’s late at night or first thing in the morning, don’t hesitate to reach out for emergency help.
A Quick Emergency Plumbing Checklist
To summarise, here’s a go-to checklist for what to do before a plumber arrives:
- Shut off the water valve immediately
- Stay safe and avoid electrical hazards
- Use temporary plumbing fixes to limit leaks
- Prevent water damage with towels and buckets
- Call a licensed emergency plumber for help
Stock Up and Be Prepared
You never know when a plumbing emergency will hit but having a few essential supplies on hand can make all the difference. Keep the following items in your home toolkit:
- Pipe sealing tape
- Adjustable wrench
- Bucket and mop
- Old towels or rags
- Contact details for a trusted emergency plumber
At Budget Plumbing Centre, we stock a wide range of plumbing supplies – find more on our website. We are always here to help – contact one of our team or drop into our showroom.
