Plumbing Emergency? Here's Exactly What to Do Before the Plumber Arrives

A burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or gas line leak can cause thousands of dollars in damage within minutes. The actions you take in the first 5–10 minutes of a plumbing emergency determine whether you're dealing with a minor repair or a major restoration project. Here's your step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water

This is always the first move. Every second water is flowing, damage is spreading.

• For a localized problem (leaking toilet, dripping sink) — Look for the fixture shut-off valve, usually located under the sink or behind the toilet. Turn it clockwise until it stops
• For a burst pipe or major leak — Go directly to your home's main water shut-off valve. In most Colorado homes, this is in the basement or crawl space on the wall facing the street. Turn it clockwise to close
• Can't find the main valve? — There's a secondary shut-off at the water meter near the curb. You may need a meter key (a T-shaped tool available at hardware stores for about $10). Every homeowner should have one

Pro tip: Locate your main shut-off valve before an emergency happens. Walk to it right now and make sure it turns freely. Valves that sit unused for years can seize up.

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Heater

If you've shut off the main water supply, turn off your water heater to prevent damage. Running a water heater without water flowing through it can cause overheating or, in extreme cases, the tank bursting.

• Gas water heater — Turn the thermostat dial to the "Pilot" or "Off" position
• Electric water heater — Switch off the dedicated breaker in your electrical panel

Step 3: Address Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If water is pooling near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel:

• Do not step in standing water near any electrical source
• If it's safe to access your breaker panel (without walking through water), turn off power to the affected areas
• If you can't safely reach the panel, call your utility company or 911

Step 4: Contain the Damage

While waiting for the plumber, minimize water damage to your home:

• Mop and bucket — Remove as much standing water as you can
• Towels and rags — Place them around the leak source and under dripping areas
• Move valuables — Relocate furniture, electronics, and important documents away from the water
• Open cabinets — If the leak is under a sink, open cabinet doors to allow air circulation and prevent mold
• Place buckets — Catch dripping water from ceiling leaks to prevent floor damage

Step 5: Document Everything

Before you start cleanup, take photos and video of the damage. This documentation is critical for insurance claims:

• Photograph the source of the leak or damage
• Document water levels and affected areas
• Take photos of any damaged belongings, flooring, or walls
• Note the date, time, and what happened

Step 6: Call an Emergency Plumber

Once the water is off and immediate damage is contained, call a licensed plumber. When you call, be ready to describe:

• What happened and when it started
• Where the water is coming from
• Whether you've been able to shut off the water
• The approximate amount of water/damage

A reputable emergency plumber should give you an estimated arrival time and may provide additional guidance over the phone for your specific situation.

Common Plumbing Emergencies in Colorado

Colorado's climate creates some region-specific plumbing emergencies that homeowners should be prepared for:

Frozen and Burst Pipes

Colorado winters routinely drop below zero, especially overnight. Pipes in uninsulated areas — exterior walls, crawl spaces, garages, and attics — are most vulnerable. When water freezes, it expands and can crack or burst the pipe. The damage often doesn't show until the pipe thaws.

Prevention: Insulate exposed pipes, keep cabinet doors open during cold snaps, and let faucets drip overnight when temperatures drop below 20°F.

Water Heater Failures

Colorado's hard water accelerates sediment buildup inside water heater tanks. Combined with our cold inlet water temperatures (which make the heater work harder), tank failures and leaks are common — especially in units older than 8–10 years.

Prevention: Flush your water heater annually and inspect the anode rod every 2–3 years.

Sewer Line Backups

Tree root intrusion is one of the leading causes of sewer line backups in the Denver metro area. Older clay sewer lines (common in homes built before 1980) are particularly susceptible as roots seek moisture through pipe joints.

Prevention: Schedule a camera inspection every few years, especially if you have large trees near your sewer line.

What NOT to Do During a Plumbing Emergency

• Don't ignore a small leak — Small leaks become big problems. A drip at one gallon per hour puts 24 gallons of water into your home every day
• Don't use chemical drain cleaners on a backup — If sewage is backing up, chemical cleaners won't help and can create a hazardous situation
• Don't try to repair a burst pipe yourself — Temporary patches are fine to slow the water, but leave the actual repair to a professional
• Don't wait until morning — Water damage compounds exponentially. Mold can start growing within 24–48 hours. The cost of an after-hours plumber is far less than a water damage restoration

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you do first during a plumbing emergency?

Shut off the water immediately. For a localized leak, use the fixture shut-off valve. For a burst pipe or major leak, turn off the main water shut-off valve (typically in the basement on the street-facing wall). Then call an emergency plumber.

How much does emergency plumbing service cost in Denver?

Emergency service calls in the Denver metro area typically cost $150–$300 plus hourly rates of $100–$200. After-hours calls may include a $50–$150 premium. Total costs depend on the complexity of the repair. Many plumbers offer free estimates even for emergency situations.

Where is the main water shut-off valve in a Colorado home?

In most Colorado homes, it's in the basement or crawl space on the wall facing the street, near where the water line enters the home. Some newer homes have it in a utility closet or garage. There's also a secondary shut-off at the water meter near the curb.

Can a burst pipe cause mold in your home?

Yes. Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. While Colorado's dry climate slows mold growth compared to humid regions, any standing water or soaked materials left untreated can develop mold. Thorough drying with fans and dehumidifiers is essential after any water emergency.