Plumbing Emergency Checklist

A plumbing emergency is not a laughing matter. They can cause extensive damage to your home and expose your family to toxic matter. Therefore, it is important to treat a plumbing emergency as an event that requires immediate attention. Let’s look at our plumbing emergency checklist.

With just one call, you can be assured that your emergency plumber in Highland Park will be on their way as soon as possible. However, there are steps that you will need to take to safeguard your home and your family while you wait.

This comprehensive emergency checklist includes two separate lists. One: a list of necessary supplies that every household should have in case of a plumbing emergency. Two: a list of actions that can help to reduce costly damage and risk to your family.

Household Supplies that Every Household Should Have:

A large bucket (5 gallons or bigger)
Duct tape
Plunger (preferably one for flat drains and one for recessed drains)
Absorbent towels
Plumber’s snake or hand auger
A basic tool kit (including a monkey wrench, Phillips screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, Allen keys, pliers)
An emergency plan with a floor plan that shows the location of the water main, water heater, breakers, emergency kit, and any other relevant spaces in your home.

Order of Operations in a Plumbing Emergency

Plumbing emergencies can vary from broken water lines to sewage backing up into your home. Each case is slightly different, and you may have to rearrange these steps according to the situation. However, there are the general steps that should take place during a plumbing emergency.

Keep in mind that if there is any risk that water is coming into direct contact with live wiring, you should immediately exit the home, turn off the water to your home at an exterior point, and call emergency services. Preventing further damage is not more important than your safety.

With that said, this is one example of what you should do to mitigate the damage of a plumbing emergency if you are able to safely do so.

Actions to Take During a Plumbing Emergency

Evacuate Children and Pets

If there is extensive flooding or backed-up sewage, then it is most important to get your children, pets, and any other dependents to safety first.

The definition of a safe area will depend on the extent of your plumbing emergency. While an upstairs bedroom may serve well in some cases, other situations may necessitate moving dependents to a neighbor’s or family member’s house.

Shut Off Water

Shutting off the water is the quickest way to limit the damage caused by your plumbing emergency. Unless you are certain that you know the underlying cause of your current plumbing issue, it is always best to shut off the water at the main line.

The shut off valve is typically outside of the home. When you move to a new location, you should always inquire as to the location of the water main so that you know exactly where to go in your yard.

Shut Off Water Heater

Most water heaters are not designed to function without water. Turning off the water main without turning off the water heater could cause the appliance to malfunction or break. Do not attempt to shut off your water heater yourself if there is a risk of electrocution.

Identify Core Problem

If possible, try to quickly identify the source and nature of your plumbing emergency. A succinct explanation will help when you call your plumbing contractor in Highland Park and any other necessary emergency services.

Call Your Emergency Plumber

Once the issue is as contained as possible, call your emergency plumber or have another adult call in your stead while you handle the water main and other issues.