Emergency Plumbing
What to do before calling an emergency plumber
Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but a few calm steps can limit damage before a plumber arrives. If water is escaping, sewage is backing up or a gas smell is present, prioritise safety first and call a licensed plumber immediately.
Stop water damage where you can
If a pipe has burst or a fixture is overflowing, turn off the nearest isolation valve. For a whole-home issue, turn off the main water supply at the meter. Move towels, furniture and valuables away from wet areas if it is safe to do so.
Avoid opening walls, lifting flooring or pulling apart fixtures unless you know what you are doing. Quick DIY damage can make the final repair more expensive.
Do not keep using blocked fixtures
If a toilet, shower, basin or floor waste is backing up, stop using connected fixtures until the blockage has been checked. Extra water can push wastewater into the home and create a hygiene issue.
Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipework and make the job less safe. A plumber can clear the line properly and check whether tree roots, collapsed pipework or heavy buildup are involved.
Give clear information on the phone
Tell the plumber what has happened, when it started, which fixtures are affected and whether you can isolate the water. Photos can also help the plumber bring the right tools and parts.
OneFlow Plumbing handles emergency plumbing across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula, including burst pipes, urgent leaks, blocked toilets and make-safe work.
Frequently asked questions
Should I turn off the water before calling?
If water is actively leaking and it is safe to access the valve, yes. Turn off the local isolation valve or the main water supply at the meter.
Is a blocked toilet an emergency?
It can be, especially if it is the only toilet, wastewater is overflowing or multiple fixtures are backing up at once.