What makes this area different
Single-family houses near the university are often rented to several people, and apartment buildings serve students and staff. Many of the surrounding streets are older tract neighborhoods, where copper or galvanized supply lines and cast-iron or clay laterals are common.
In shared housing, emergencies tend to go wrong for simple reasons: nobody knows where the shutoff is, everyone assumes someone else called the landlord, or heavy use overwhelms an old drain line.
For tenants: the first ten minutes
Stop the water
Close the fixture valve, or the main if you know where it is.
Gas smell means leave
Get everyone out and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
Sewage means stop using water
Tell every housemate not to flush, shower or run laundry.
Tell the landlord or manager
Call and also text or email so there is a record.
Take photos
Before cleaning up, for the landlord and any renter's insurance.
For landlords: set up the house
Who handles what
| Situation | Usually contact |
|---|---|
| Leak or clog inside the rental | Landlord or property manager |
| Gas smell | 911 or SoCalGas, from outside |
| Meter or street water problem | The city of Fullerton's water utility |
| Repair work | A licensed plumber arranged by the owner, checked at cslb.ca.gov |
Common questions
Can a tenant call a plumber directly?
Check your lease and talk to your landlord first, except where safety requires immediate action like shutting off water or leaving for a gas smell.
Why do shared houses get more drain clogs?
More people, more laundry and more showers put more load on older drain lines.
Who do I tell about a leak in an apartment above mine?
The property manager, right away, and the neighbor if you can reach them safely.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.