Austin Emergency Plumbers
(833) 705-3750
Emergency Tips

Emergency Plumbing Checklist: What to Do Before We Arrive

January 5, 2025
4 min read

When a plumbing emergency strikes your Austin home, every minute counts. Follow this essential checklist to minimize damage and keep your family safe while our Master Plumbers are on the way.

Step 1: Ensure Immediate Safety (First 30 Seconds)

Immediate Actions

  1. Move family members away from the affected area
  2. Turn off electricity to the area if water is present
  3. If you smell gas, evacuate and call 911
  4. Call Austin Emergency Plumbers: (833) 705-3750

Safety Priorities

  • People first - property second
  • Avoid electrical hazards near water
  • Don't walk through standing water

Step 2: Stop the Water Flow (Next 2 Minutes)

Stopping the water source is crucial to prevent further damage. Here's how to locate and shut off water in different scenarios:

Individual Fixtures

  • • Toilets: Turn valve clockwise behind toilet
  • • Sinks: Turn valves under sink clockwise
  • • Water Heater: Turn off at unit and main valve
  • • Washing Machine: Turn off hot/cold valves

Main Water Shut-Off

  • • Location: Usually near street or where main line enters home
  • • Austin Homes: Often in front yard near water meter
  • • Turn: Clockwise to shut off (righty-tighty)
  • • Tool: May need water meter key or wrench

Step 3: Minimize Property Damage (Next 5 Minutes)

Water Removal

  • Use buckets, towels, or mops to remove standing water
  • Move furniture and belongings to dry areas
  • Open windows for ventilation if weather permits
  • Take photos for insurance documentation

Protect Valuables

  • Move electronics away from water
  • Roll up rugs and carpets if possible
  • Remove books, papers, and documents
  • Place aluminum foil under furniture legs

Step 4: Gather Information for Our Technician

While waiting for our Master Plumber to arrive, gather this information to help us diagnose and fix the problem faster:

Problem Details

  • • When did the problem start?
  • • What were you doing when it happened?
  • • Is this the first time this has occurred?
  • • Are multiple fixtures affected?
  • • Any unusual sounds, smells, or colors?

Home Information

  • • Age of your Austin home
  • • Type of plumbing (copper, PVC, etc.)
  • • Recent plumbing work or changes
  • • Location of main water shut-off
  • • Any accessibility issues for our technician

Austin's Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

Immediate Response Needed

  • 🚨 Burst pipes (especially in winter)
  • 🚨 Sewer backup into home
  • 🚨 No hot water in winter
  • 🚨 Gas leak near water heater
  • 🚨 Flooding from any source

Urgent But Manageable

  • ⚠️ Toilet overflowing
  • ⚠️ Kitchen sink completely blocked
  • ⚠️ Water heater leaking
  • ⚠️ Multiple drains backing up
  • ⚠️ Visible pipe leaks

What NOT to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

Never Do This

  • ❌ Use electrical appliances near water
  • ❌ Pour chemical drain cleaners on backups
  • ❌ Try to fix gas line issues yourself
  • ❌ Ignore the problem hoping it goes away
  • ❌ Use excessive force on stuck valves

Avoid These Mistakes

  • ⚠️ Waiting too long to call professionals
  • ⚠️ Using the wrong tools
  • ⚠️ Attempting complex repairs yourself
  • ⚠️ Forgetting to document damage
  • ⚠️ Not communicating with your insurance

Be Prepared: Austin Homeowner Emergency Kit

Keep these items easily accessible for plumbing emergencies:

Essential Tools

  • • Water meter key
  • • Adjustable wrench
  • • Plunger (cup and flange types)
  • • Flashlight with batteries

Cleanup Supplies

  • • Large buckets
  • • Old towels and rags
  • • Plastic sheeting
  • • Wet/dry vacuum if available

Important Information

  • • Our number: (833) 705-3750
  • • Insurance company contact
  • • Main shut-off valve location
  • • Home's plumbing layout/age

Plumbing Emergency Right Now?

Don't wait - every minute counts in a plumbing emergency. Our Master Plumbers are standing by 24/7 with our 60-minute response guarantee throughout Austin.

Available 24/7/365 • Licensed Master Plumbers • No Extra Emergency Fees

Related Emergency Guides

Seasonal Tips

Winter Pipe Protection Austin: Freeze Prevention Tips 2025

Protect your Austin pipes from winter freezes with expert prevention tips.

Troubleshooting

Common Drain Problems: DIY Solutions & When to Call Pros

Learn which drain problems you can fix yourself and when to call professionals.