A plumbing emergency can cause thousands of dollars in damage if not handled quickly. Here's what to do while you wait for the plumber.
Burst Pipe
Turn off the water at the mains immediately. The mains shutoff (toby) is usually near the street boundary. Turn on taps to drain remaining water from the pipes. If the burst is near electrical outlets, turn off the power at the switchboard. Mop up standing water to prevent damage to floors and furniture.
Blocked Drain
Stop using water that flows to the blocked drain. If sewage is backing up, avoid flushing toilets and running taps. Open windows for ventilation. Don't use chemical drain cleaners — they rarely work on serious blockages and can damage pipes. A plumber with a drain camera and water blaster will clear it properly.
Leaking Hot Water Cylinder
Turn off the power to the cylinder (at the switchboard, not just the wall switch). Turn off the cold water supply to the cylinder. Place towels or a bucket to catch the leak. If the leak is significant, turn off the mains water. Don't attempt to repair a hot water cylinder yourself.
Overflowing Toilet
Stop the flow by turning off the water supply valve behind the toilet (turn clockwise). If there's no valve, lift the cistern lid and push the float arm down to stop water entering. Don't flush again. Use towels to contain the overflow and clean with disinfectant.
Finding an Emergency Plumber
Most plumbers on Call A Tradie offer emergency callout services. Look for plumbers showing as 'Available' on their profile. Emergency callouts typically cost $200-$400 for the first hour, with additional time charged at standard rates. Having a trusted plumber's number saved in your phone before an emergency happens is the best preparation.
Preventing Plumbing Emergencies
Regular maintenance prevents most emergencies. Get your plumbing inspected every 2-3 years. Know where your mains shutoff is. Don't pour grease down drains. Replace washing machine hoses every 5 years. Insulate exposed pipes in winter.