Step 1: Safety questions
If any answer is yes, act on it before anything else.
- IfDo you smell gas, rotten eggs or sulfur anywhere?Leave now. Call 911 or SoCalGas from outside. Do not use switches or flames.
- IfIs water near outlets, a panel or appliances?Stay out of the wet area. Switch off that circuit only from dry ground.
- IfIs sewage coming up into the house?Stop all water use, keep people and pets away, and call a plumber now.
Step 2: Can you stop the water?
- IfWater is still flowing and the fixture valve will not stop itClose the main shutoff now, then call a plumber tonight.
- IfYou closed the main and the house is now dry, but you have no waterCall tonight if you need water for health or care reasons; otherwise early morning may be fine.
- IfA fixture valve stopped it and the rest of the house worksUsually within the day or a normal appointment.
Step 3: Quick urgency guide
| Situation | Suggested timing |
|---|---|
| Water heater tank leaking from the body | Shut it down now; call today |
| Only toilet in the house unusable | Today |
| One of several toilets unusable | Normal appointment |
| Water meter moving with everything off | Today; close main between uses |
| Slow single drain | Normal appointment |
| Dripping faucet | Normal appointment |
| No hot water, no leak | Today or next day, depending on household needs |
Have this ready when you call
Why waiting can be fine
Once the water is off and nobody is at risk, many problems are just inconvenient. Daytime visits give you time to check a contractor's license, compare estimates and see the problem in good light. The goal of an emergency call is to make the house safe; the permanent fix can often follow on a calmer day.
Common questions
Is a running toilet worth an after-hours call?
Usually not. Close the valve behind it and schedule a normal visit.
What if I am not sure whether it is sewage or clean water?
Treat it as sewage. Keep people away and avoid touching it without gloves.
Should I wait for the morning if water is off but I have a slab leak?
Often yes, if the main is closed and nothing is spreading. Arrange leak detection as early as you can.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.