Get help right away if

  • IfThe main shutoff will not close or water keeps flowing after it is closedThenTry the curb valve at the meter, call the City of Fullerton water utility about the meter, and call a plumber now.
  • IfA ceiling is sagging or dripping heavilyThenKeep people out of the room, close the main and get help promptly.
  • IfThe leak is on the hot side and you cannot isolate the water heaterThenShut off the main and the heater's heat source, then call.
  • IfWater is coming up in the yard between the meter and the houseThenClose the house main; if it does not stop, the line is before the shutoff and needs prompt attention.
  • IfYou need water for medical, infant or accessibility reasons and cannot isolate the leakThenTreat it as urgent and say so when you call.

It can usually wait for a scheduled visit if

  • IfYou closed an angle stop and the rest of the house worksThenSchedule the repair during regular hours.
  • IfA washer hose burst and the washer valves are closedThenReplace the hoses or schedule a plumber; the house can run normally.
  • IfThe meter test shows a slow hidden leak but nothing is visibly wetThenKeep a symptom log and book leak detection soon.
  • IfA small drip at a valve stem is caught in a bucketThenSchedule a valve replacement.

Urgent vs scheduled at a glance

Urgent

  • Water cannot be stopped
  • Electrical or ceiling risk
  • No water for essential needs
  • Gas smell (call 911 or SoCalGas first)

Scheduled

  • Leak isolated at a local valve
  • Rest of the house has water
  • Slow hidden leak, no visible damage
  • Only a drip you can contain

While you wait either way

  1. Keep the water off.Leave the main or local valve closed except when you need water.
  2. Dry what you can.Move contents, run fans if power is safe, and open cabinets.
  3. Document.Take photos and keep the failed part.
  4. Check the plumber.Look up the CSLB license at cslb.ca.gov before they arrive.

A note on cost and timing

Urgent visits outside regular hours may be priced differently from scheduled ones. Ask about that when you call so you can decide whether a contained leak can wait. This site does not quote prices or response times; only the plumber you contact can tell you theirs.

Common questions

Can a small leak become an emergency?

Yes. A pinhole or a weeping fitting can open up under pressure. If a small leak is getting worse, treat it as urgent.

Should I call the city or a plumber?

Call the City of Fullerton water utility for leaks at or before the meter. Call a licensed plumber for anything on your side.

Is a hidden slab leak an emergency?

Usually not in the minutes-matter sense, but it should be located soon. Keep the water off between uses if the meter shows a steady leak.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.