Step 1: Is anyone in danger?
Answer these first. If any is yes, follow the instruction and stop.
- IfYou smell gas or hear hissing at a gas lineThenLeave now. Call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
- IfWater is reaching outlets, appliances or the electrical panelThenStay out of the water. Cut power at the breaker only from a dry spot; otherwise call 911.
- IfA ceiling is bulging with waterThenKeep everyone out from under it and move to step 2.
- IfSewage is in living areasThenKeep children, pets and vulnerable people away, then move to step 2.
Step 2: Can you stop it?
- IfClosing the main or a fixture valve stops the waterThenDamage is contained. Go to step 3.
- IfThe main will not close and water keeps flowingThenTry the meter valve at the curb. If that fails, call a plumber now and contact the city's water utility.
- IfSewage keeps rising even with no water in useThenCall a plumber now; the blockage may also be on the public side, so check with the city.
Step 3: Can the house function until morning?
- IfNo working toilet in the homeThenCall tonight.
- IfWater must stay off for the whole houseThenCall tonight if you cannot manage without water until morning.
- IfOnly one fixture is affected and its valve is closedThenIt can usually wait for a regular visit.
- IfNo hot water, no leak, no gas smellThenUsually can wait for regular hours.
Quick sort
| Problem | Usually |
|---|---|
| Gas smell | Leave and call 911 or SoCalGas |
| Burst pipe, water still flowing | Call now |
| Sewage backup | Call now |
| Water heater tank leaking | Shut off, call soon |
| Slab leak suspected, floor dry | Close main between uses, call next day |
| Dripping faucet or running toilet | Regular visit |
| One slow drain | Regular visit |
Before you call, have ready
- What happened and when you noticed it
- Whether the water and gas are off
- Age of the home and any past plumbing repairs
- Photos of the problem
- Gate codes or parking notes for the property
Common questions
Is waiting until morning ever risky for a closed-off leak?
If the main is closed and holding, the risk is low. Check periodically that no water is still escaping.
What if I rent?
Contact your landlord or property manager first unless there is immediate danger. Follow their after-hours instructions.
Can the city help with a sewer backup?
If the problem is in the public sewer, yes. Check with the City of Garden Grove.
General information for Garden Grove, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.