Plumbing emergencies never knock and wait politely for you to answer. They don’t care if it’s midnight or if you’re expecting guests in 10 minutes—they can happen at any time with no notice, and a burst pipe or blocked toilet can quickly turn into a costly disaster.
The good news is that knowing what to do (and what not to do) can prevent water damage, reduce stress and save you money in the long run.
This guide is here to help you navigate the essential dos and don’ts of plumbing emergencies in your home. We’ll walk you through temporary fixes and when to call in the pros. That way, you can stay calm and take control.
DO: Turn Off the Water Supply Immediately
“The first step in any plumbing emergency is to shut off the water. This simple action can prevent thousands of litres of water from flooding your home”, says plumber from Mr Emergency Plumbing.
Locate the main water shut-off valve—usually near the front boundary of your home or near the water meter. For toilets or sinks, you can also turn off the local isolation valve (usually underneath the fixture).
Make sure your household knows where the main shut-off is before an emergency arises. That way, you can save everyone a lot of stress.
DON’T: Try to Fix Everything Yourself
Aussies love their DIY. But plumbing systems can be deceptively complex. A quick “fix” with the wrong tape or tool can cause more damage than good.
What do you think happens when you void an appliance warranty, breach local plumbing codes or create leaks or pressure imbalances? That’s right: you end up with more problems than you started with.
Unless you’re a licensed plumber, it’s best to leave taking apart pipes or fixtures to the pros.
DO: Contain the Problem
If there’s already a leak, contain it to prevent water damage to floors, walls or furniture.
You need to act quickly: use buckets, towels or plastic tubs to collect dripping water. Place waterproof sheeting under leaks. For burst pipes, wrap the area with duct tape or rags to slow the flow until help arrives.
Even a 30-minute delay can make a difference when you’re trying to protect timber floors or cabinetry.
DON’T: Ignore Slow Leaks or Drips
A slow drip may not seem like a big deal…until your water bill triples or mould starts forming behind the walls. In Australia’s humid climate, leaks can escalate quickly.
Do you know the signs of hidden leaks? A musty smell in cupboards or walls, paint bubbling or flaking, unexplained water pooling or high water usage on your meter. If you notice these signs, don’t wait for it to get worse. Call a plumber to inspect the area—it could save you from major structural damage down the line.
DO: Shut Off Electricity if Needed
Water and electricity don’t mix. If water is leaking near power outlets, appliances or your switchboard, take precautions.
Turn off the power at the main switch if there’s water near electrical sources. Avoid stepping into standing water near cords or outlets. Don’t attempt to unplug wet appliances.
Call an emergency electrician if water has reached your power points or circuit board.
DON’T: Pour Chemicals Down the Drain
When faced with a blocked sink or slow drain, many people reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners. But they often do more harm than good.
Why? They can corrode pipes, especially in older homes. Not only are they dangerous if mixed with other substances, but they’re also bad for the environment and septic systems. And they might not resolve the root cause of the blockage.
Instead, use a plunger, baking soda and vinegar or call a plumber who can properly clear the line without damaging it.
DO: Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber
Some situations are best left to professionals. If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, sewage backup, gas leak or major flooding, call an emergency plumber immediately.
In Australia, licensed plumbers must be registered and insured. Always ask for their license number or check with your state’s plumbing authority. You can also use Master Plumbers Australia to find certified professionals near you.
DON’T: Delay Action in a “Minor” Emergency
It’s tempting to brush off smaller issues like a leaky tap, gurgling drain or slow-flushing toilet. But, plumbing systems are interconnected. What’s a small problem today could become a much bigger one tomorrow.
What are some common small issues that escalate? Minor pipe leaks that become bursts. Leaks that become floods. And so on.
Plumbing emergencies can be a real source of stress, and the longer you wait to deal with them, the more costly and messy they can become. Even if it doesn’t feel like an emergency yet, it usually does eventually, so it’s always better to act early.
DO: Keep Basic Supplies on Hand
You don’t need to be a plumber, but having a small emergency kit on hand can help you manage a situation until help arrives.
Some essentials to keep in your kit include an adjustable spanner, duct tape, towels or absorbent rags, a bucket, rubber gloves, a plunger and a flashlight. You should also have the contact details for an emergency plumber on your fridge or phone.
DON’T: Assume Insurance Will Cover Everything
What you don’t want to do is assume your insurance will cover everything. While many home insurance policies cover sudden water damage, they may not cover gradual leaks, DIY mistakes or damage caused by neglect.
Before you start making claims, take photos of the damage and save all receipts for repairs or call-out fees. Contact your insurer to clarify what’s covered and ask if they offer emergency plumbing call-out reimbursements as part of their premium packages.
Be Prepared to Act
In those first few minutes after a plumbing emergency strikes, your actions really do matter. Knowing the right steps to take and what to avoid can make all the difference. That means shutting off the water, calling in a licensed tradie and avoiding chemical quick-fixes.
By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to protect your home, avoid major damage and get things flowing again with minimal fuss.
