Before emergency plumbing help arrives, shut off the water supply, keep people away from wet electrical areas, move belongings out of harm’s way, and take photos of the damage. These steps can limit how far the water spreads and make the repair go more smoothly.
Turn Off the Water
Most fixtures have a small shutoff valve nearby. Toilets have one behind the base, and sinks usually have two under the cabinet. If the leak is in a wall or ceiling, close the main shutoff, which is often near the water meter where the line enters the home. In an apartment building, ask the super or building staff where the shutoff is.
Stay Safe Around Electricity
Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Do not walk through standing water near outlets, power strips, or appliances. If you can reach the breaker panel from a dry spot, you can switch off power to the affected area. If not, stay out of the room.
Protect Your Things
Move rugs, furniture, electronics, and boxes away from the water. Put towels down to slow the spread. Place buckets under drips coming through a ceiling, and keep an eye on any bulge in the drywall.
Write Down What Happened
Take photos and short videos of the leak and the damage before you clean up. Note when you first saw the problem and what you did. This helps with insurance claims and helps the plumber understand the cause.
Make sure the plumber can easily reach the problem area, the main shutoff, and your water heater if needed. Put pets in another room so the work is not interrupted.
Once you have done what you can, the urgent repair can focus on fixing the cause. After the crisis passes, it can help to schedule a once-over of the remaining pipes and fixtures so other weak spots are found early. Call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.