Emergency Plumbing Guide: What to Do Before Help Arrives

When water gushes where it shouldn’t, panic rises fast. Maybe your kitchen floor is suddenly a lake. Or the basement smells like gas. In those first moments, every second matters. Dakota Plumbing understands the chaos—and the urgency. Our certified technicians are on call 24/7, nationwide, ready to help both homes and businesses. Response times may vary by region, but our commitment never wavers.

If you’re staring down a burst pipe at midnight or a leaking water heater on a Sunday, here’s what you can do before help arrives. Stay calm. Take smart steps. Your quick action can make all the difference.

Recognizing a True Plumbing Emergency 🚨

Not all plumbing problems demand a midnight call. But some do. So, what counts as a true emergency?

• Burst pipes: Water is pouring where it shouldn’t.
• Major leaks: Ceilings or walls are soaked, or water won’t stop.
• Overflowing toilets: Water spilling over, threatening damage below.
• Gas line issues: Smell of rotten eggs, hissing sounds, or dizziness.
• Total loss of water or sewage backup: Health risks, property damage, or both.

If you’re dealing with any of these, it’s time to act fast. According to the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), immediate intervention can prevent structural damage and health hazards.

Immediate Steps to Contain Damage

Picture a leaking pipe like a wild garden hose—out of control, splashing everywhere. You can’t fix it, but you can tame it until the pros arrive.

Here’s how:

• Shut off the water: Find the nearest valve. For most homes, the main shutoff is in the basement, garage, or near the street.
• Catch the water: Place buckets, towels, or pans under drips.
• Turn off electricity: If water is near outlets, flip the breaker. Safety first.
• Ventilate: Open windows if you smell gas or strong chemicals.
• Clear the area: Move valuables, rugs, and electronics to dry ground.

If you can’t control the leak—or if you smell gas—evacuate immediately and wait for professionals outside.

When to Shut Off Water or Gas

Sometimes, the fastest way to stop a disaster is to “pull the plug.” But do you know where your main shutoff is?

Water Shutoff

• Main valve: Usually a round wheel or lever near where the water line enters the building.
• Toilet valve: Small handle behind the toilet, near the floor.
• Sink/Shower valves: Under the fixture or in the wall.
• Tip: Turn clockwise (right) to close.

Gas Shutoff

• Main gas valve: Usually located at your gas meter outside.
• Quarter-turn valve: Turn so it’s perpendicular to the pipe to shut off.
• If you smell gas: Do NOT operate electrical switches, use phones, or light flames. Leave immediately, then call for help from a safe distance.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends evacuation any time you suspect a gas leak.

Protecting Your Property and Family 🏠

Think of water as a silent invader. It creeps into drywall, soaks insulation, and triggers mold. Gas is invisible, but even a small leak can be deadly.

Safeguard your space:

• Remove pets and children from affected areas.
• Keep a flashlight handy for dark basements or power outages.
• Use fans or open windows to air out rooms, but only if it’s safe.
• Never use electrical appliances near standing water.

When in doubt, wait outside until help arrives.

What to Tell Your Plumber

Clear communication saves precious minutes. When you call Dakota Plumbing, be ready to share:

• Exact location: Address and area of the problem (bathroom, basement, kitchen).
• What happened: “Pipe burst under sink” or “toilet overflowing onto floor.”
• When it started: Ongoing leak or sudden break?
• What you’ve done: Shut off water, moved valuables, etc.
• Any hazards: Water near outlets, gas smell, injury, or illness.

Our dispatchers use this info to prioritize emergencies and send the right crew—with the right tools—for your situation.

Dakota Plumbing’s Printable Emergency Plumbing Checklist

Print and stick this on your fridge—just in case.

• [ ] Know where main water and gas shutoff valves are.
• [ ] Keep emergency numbers handy.
• [ ] Stock extra towels and buckets.
• [ ] Have a flashlight and batteries ready.
• [ ] Write down your address for quick reference.
• [ ] Save Dakota Plumbing’s number:  888-853-6782 
• [ ] Post instructions for all family members, tenants, or employees.

Quick Safety Checklist ✅

• Is everyone safe? Account for all people and pets.
• Can you safely shut off water or gas?
• Are electrical hazards present?
• Contain leaks with towels/pans if safe.
• Call Dakota Plumbing immediately.

When to Shut Off Water or Gas

If you’re not sure, shut it off. Fast action is better than hesitation. But if you smell gas or feel unsafe, evacuate first.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some clogs or drips can wait. But emergencies can escalate. If you’re facing:

• Gushing water that won’t stop
• Sudden drop in water pressure
• Sewage backup
• Persistent gas odor

Don’t risk it. Call Dakota Plumbing’s 24/7 emergency line.

What the Pros Do On Arrival

Our crews arrive with specialized tools and years of training. First, they’ll verify the source of the problem—using leak detection gear, cameras for sewer line inspection, or gas sniffers for safety.

Then, they’ll:

• Stabilize the situation (shutoffs, patches).
• Prevent further damage to your home or business.
• Advise on the next steps for repair.
• Document findings for insurance if needed.

We’ll explain everything in plain language—it’s your property, and your peace of mind.

Prevention & Maintenance

You can’t predict every emergency. But regular care helps. Schedule annual backflow testing, inspect valves, and keep drains clear. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends routine checks for leaks and corrosion, especially in older buildings.

Costs & Time Factors

Every emergency is different. Some repairs take an hour; others might need follow-up visits. Costs depend on:

• Type and location of the issue (main line vs. fixture)
• Time of day (after-hours calls may take longer)
• Parts and materials required
• Extent of water, gas, or structural damage

Dakota Plumbing responds rapidly, but local traffic and weather can affect arrival times.

When It’s an Emergency

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I call?”—you probably should. Waiting can mean more damage, higher repair bills, and health risks. When in doubt, reach out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I find my main water shutoff valve?
A: Check the basement, crawl space, garage, or outside near the foundation. It’s usually a big round wheel or lever.

Q: Is it safe to use a plunger on an overflowing toilet?
A: If water is still rising, shut off the water valve first. Then use the plunger. If overflow continues, call a pro.

Q: What should I do if I smell gas?
A: Leave the building immediately. Don’t use electronics or light switches. Once outside, call Dakota Plumbing and your gas company.

Q: Can I use duct tape on a leaking pipe?
A: Only as a very short-term fix. It might slow a trickle, but it won’t hold back a major leak.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌨️

In colder climates, pipes can freeze and burst—especially overnight. In humid regions, mold can spread fast after leaks. Dakota Plumbing’s teams are familiar with local codes and seasonal risks. Response times may vary by region, but our technicians are always prepared for what your area throws at us.

Emergencies are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. Dakota Plumbing’s rapid-response teams are available nationwide, day or night—ready to handle everything from sewer line repair to gas leaks. Print our checklist. Share it with your family or staff. And remember:

Call Dakota Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  888-853-6782 .