Before you dial
- Make it safe first.Close the main water, stop using drains if sewage is backing up, and get out and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside if you smell gas.
- Take two photos.One of the problem and one wider shot of the area. Many plumbers can look at a photo by text.
- Grab this page.Fill in the blanks below so the call takes a few minutes, not twenty.
Fill in before calling
| Detail | Your answer |
|---|---|
| What is happening (leak, backup, no water, heater) | |
| Where in the house | |
| When it started | |
| Main water shut off? (yes or no) | |
| Gas or power shut off? (yes or no) | |
| Sewage involved? (yes or no) | |
| Approximate age of the house | |
| Slab or raised foundation | |
| Water heater type and age if known | |
| Address and best way in |
Questions to ask on the call
- What is your CSLB license number and business name?
- Is my Brea address in your service area?
- How do you charge after hours, and is there a trip or service fee?
- Who will come out, and are they your employee?
- Can you make it safe tonight and price any permanent repair separately in writing?
- Is there anything else I should shut off or do before you arrive?
If the answers worry you
- IfThey will not give a license numberCall someone else.
- IfThey cannot explain how they chargeAsk again, then consider another company.
- IfThey suggest a big repair before seeing anythingAsk them to diagnose first and quote in writing.
- IfThe problem is under control with the water offYou can choose a daytime appointment instead.
A note about this site
Use this script with whichever plumber you call, including us. Brea Emergency Plumber is a preview site: the phone number shown is a temporary placeholder, and the request form is not connected yet, so anything sent through it does not reach anyone.
Keep a printed copy with your shutoff map. In the moment, having the facts on paper is often the difference between a calm call and a confused one.
Common questions
- Should I mention the age of my house?
- Yes. It helps the plumber guess at pipe and sewer materials and bring the right parts.
- Is it okay to send photos?
- Usually yes. Ask whether they accept photos by text or email.
- What if I do not know whether my house has a slab?
- If there is no crawlspace access and the floors sit at ground level, it is likely a slab. Say you are not sure.
General information for Brea, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.