If you have a plumbing emergency, the first step is to shut off the water, either at the fixture or at the home’s main water shutoff valve, to stop further flooding, then call a licensed 24/7 emergency plumber. Acting within the first few minutes of a burst pipe, major leak, or overflow can be the difference between a quick repair and thousands of dollars in water damage.
What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?
Not every plumbing issue requires an after-hours call, but the following situations should be treated as emergencies:
- Burst or actively leaking pipes
- No water heater hot water combined with active leaking (risk of tank failure)
- Sewer backup into sinks, tubs, or drains
- Gas smell near a gas line or appliance (leave the home immediately and call your gas utility, then a licensed plumber)
- Overflowing toilet that won’t stop running
- Flooding from a washing machine or dishwasher supply line
- No water at all to the entire house
- Water heater leaking or making loud popping/banging noises
Step-by-Step: What to Do Right Now
- Shut off the water. Every fixture (toilet, sink, washing machine) usually has its own shutoff valve. If the leak is uncontrolled or you can’t find the source, shut off the main water valve, typically located where the water line enters the house or near the water meter.
- Turn off electricity to the affected area if water is near outlets, appliances, or the electrical panel.
- If you smell gas, leave the house immediately. Do not turn on lights or use electronics. Call your gas provider’s emergency line from outside, then call a licensed plumber.
- Contain the water. Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to limit spread while waiting for help.
- Document the damage with photos for insurance purposes, once safety is handled.
- Call a 24/7 emergency plumber. Give a clear description of the issue so the dispatcher can send the right equipment and technician.
Where Is My Main Water Shutoff Valve?
In most North Texas homes, the main shutoff valve is located:
- Near the water meter at the front of the property, or
- Inside the home near the water heater or where the main line enters (often in a garage or utility closet)
It’s worth locating and testing this valve before an emergency happens, a stuck or hard-to-find valve costs precious time during an active leak.
How Fast Can Water Damage Occur?
Water damage can begin within minutes of a burst pipe and worsen significantly within the first 24–48 hours, as water soaks into drywall, flooring, and subflooring, creating conditions for mold growth. This is why plumbing emergencies are handled on an immediate, 24/7 basis rather than during standard business hours only.
How Much Does Emergency Plumbing Cost?
Emergency plumbing costs depend on the type of issue, time of call, and repair complexity. After-hours and weekend emergency calls are typically priced differently than standard daytime service due to availability. The most accurate way to get pricing is a direct call, since dispatchers can often give a clearer estimate once they understand the specific issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do in a plumbing emergency?
Shut off the water supply, either at the affected fixture or the home’s main shutoff valve, to stop the leak from worsening, then call a licensed 24/7 emergency plumber.
Is a running toilet a plumbing emergency?
A toilet that won’t stop running and is at risk of overflowing should be treated as urgent. Shutting off the water valve behind the toilet will usually stop the flow until a plumber arrives.
What should I do if I smell gas in my house?
Leave the home immediately, avoid using light switches or electronics, and call your gas utility’s emergency line from a safe location. Once the area is cleared, a licensed plumber can inspect and repair the gas line.
Does Capital Plumbing offer 24/7 emergency service?
Yes. Capital Plumbing, Inc. provides 24-hour, 7-day-a-week emergency plumbing service throughout the DFW metroplex. Call (940) 440-1100 any time, day or night.
How quickly can an emergency plumber arrive?
Response times vary by location and current call volume. Calling immediately and providing a clear description of the emergency helps dispatch the right technician as quickly as possible.
Capital Plumbing, Inc. is a licensed plumbing contractor (Master Plumber License #40899) providing 24/7 emergency plumbing service to Pilot Point, TX and the greater DFW metroplex.