Step 1: Is anyone in danger?
- IfYou smell gasThenLeave now and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside. Stop here.
- IfWater is in contact with outlets, a panel or light fixturesThenStay out of the area. Cut power from a dry spot if possible, otherwise call 911.
- IfA ceiling is sagging heavilyThenKeep everyone out of the room.
- IfNone of theseThenGo to Step 2.
Step 2: Can you stop the water?
- IfYes, at a fixture valveThenClose it. Go to Step 3.
- IfYes, at the main shutoff or meterThenClose it. Go to Step 3.
- IfNo, the water will not stopThenCall a plumber tonight, and the city water utility if the leak is at the meter.
- IfIt is sewage, not clean waterThenStop all water use, keep people away and go to Step 3.
Step 3: Can the household manage until morning?
- IfSewage is still rising or on the floorThenCall tonight.
- IfThe only toilet is out of serviceThenCall tonight in most cases, especially with children, older adults or someone unwell at home.
- IfThe main is off and the house has no water at allThenYour call: many households can manage a night with bottled water; others cannot.
- IfWater is stopped and the house has working toilets and waterThenUsually safe to wait for a daytime appointment.
Common problems sorted
| Problem | Usually |
|---|---|
| Gas smell | Leave, call 911 or SoCalGas |
| Burst pipe you cannot isolate | Tonight |
| Sewage backup | Tonight |
| Leaking water heater tank, shut down | Next day is often fine |
| No hot water, no leak | Morning |
| Running toilet | Morning |
| One slow drain | Morning |
| Dripping faucet | Whenever convenient |
Why waiting is sometimes the better choice
Once the danger is handled and the water is stopped, the urgency is mostly gone. Waiting for business hours can mean more businesses to choose from, time to check a license at cslb.ca.gov, and the chance to compare written prices.
That is not a reason to ignore a problem. Book the visit first thing, keep the main closed if needed, and keep watching for anything that changes.
Common questions
Is a leaking water heater an emergency?
Once the cold supply and heat are off, most can wait until the next day. A leak you cannot stop or any gas smell changes that.
Should I call the city or a plumber for a yard leak?
If it is at or before the meter, the city water utility. Between the meter and the house, a licensed plumber.
What if my landlord does not answer?
Shut off the water, document everything and keep trying. Your lease or local tenant resources may explain what to do next.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.