Work down the list

  • IfWater is pouring through a ceiling or wallThenShut off the main now and get urgent help.
  • IfThe water meter moves with everything offThenA pressurized leak; shut the main or the valve stops and arrange a repair soon.
  • IfThe shower can suddenly go scalding hotThenStop using it, especially for children or older adults, and arrange a repair soon.
  • IfA stain appears only after deep bathsThenAvoid baths, keep showering, and schedule a repair.
  • IfThe head or spout drips with the handle offThenNot urgent; schedule a cartridge or stem repair.
  • IfCaulk or grout has gaps but nothing below is wetThenNot urgent; reseal soon to prevent a leak.

Now versus scheduled

Needs attention now

  • Running water inside walls or ceilings
  • Wet electrical fixtures
  • A ceiling that sags or bulges
  • A leak you can't stop with any shutoff

Can be scheduled

  • A steady drip from the spout
  • A stain that grows only with one fixture use
  • Stiff handle or weak flow
  • Cracked grout or failing caulk

While you wait for a repair

  1. Limit use.Stop using the fixture that triggers the leak. Use another bathroom if you have one.
  2. Protect below.Move furniture and rugs from under the stain and set out a bucket.
  3. Start drying.Run a fan and open windows; don't close up wet drywall.
  4. Document.Photograph the damage and keep a symptom log for the plumber and your insurer.

About this guide

This guide gives general direction, not an assessment of your home. If you aren't sure, treat it as the more urgent case and shut the water off; turning the main back on later costs nothing.

This is a preview site for Fullerton Shower & Tub Repair. Our phone number is a temporary placeholder and the request form is not connected yet, so in an urgent situation shut the water off and call a licensed contractor you have checked at cslb.ca.gov.

Common questions

Is a dripping shower ever an emergency?

Not by itself. It becomes urgent if water is also showing up inside the wall or below.

Can I keep showering with a small ceiling stain?

If the stain only grows after baths, showering is often fine. If it grows after showers, stop until it is repaired.

Should I call my insurer?

If there is real water damage, check your policy and ask your insurer how they want it documented.

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