Emergency

Water where it shouldn't be? Start here.

We take emergency calls evenings and weekends. While we're on the way, these steps limit the damage.

Before we get there

Do what you safely can, in this order.

Shut off the main water valve
This is the most important step. Your main shut-off is usually in the basement where the water line comes through the wall, often next to the water meter. Turn the handle clockwise until it stops. If it's a lever, turn it so it sits across the pipe. If the valve won't move, don't force it: call us.
Keep away from water and electricity
If water is near outlets, a furnace or the electrical panel, stay out of it. Only switch off power at the panel if you can reach it while standing somewhere dry.
Turn off the water heater
If the main will be off for a while, or the leak is at the water heater, switch off the power to an electric heater at the panel, or set a gas heater to pilot or off.
Drain the lines
Open the cold taps on the lowest floor to empty the water still in the pipes. It takes pressure off a burst pipe.
Stop the spread and take photos
Move what you can off the floor, put down towels and buckets, and take photos for your insurance.
Call us
Call (555) 555-0177 and tell us what's happening. We take emergency calls evenings and weekends.

Quick fixes

Turn the small valve behind the toilet, near the floor, clockwise. Lift the tank lid and push the flapper down. Don't flush again.

Close the two small valves under the sink and put a bucket under the leak.

If it has split, or you can't tell, turn off the main. Thaw gently with a hair dryer, starting from the tap end. Never use an open flame.

Check it's plugged in and the breaker hasn't tripped, and that the float isn't stuck. Move things off the basement floor and call us.

Stop using water anywhere in the house: no flushing, no taps, no laundry. Keep people and pets away from it.

Close the cold water valve on the pipe going into the top of the tank, then switch off its power or set the gas to off.

Evenings and weekends included. Tell us what happened and we'll get to you as soon as we can.