Act right away
Stop the water or leave the house first, then call.
- IfWater is spraying, pouring or coming through a ceilingThenClose the main shutoff, cut power to wet areas if safe, then call a plumber.
- IfSewage is backing up into a tub, shower or floorThenStop all water use, keep people and pets away, and call.
- IfThe water heater is leaking from the tankThenClose its cold inlet, shut off gas or power to it, and call.
- IfYou have no water at all and neighbors doThenCheck the main shutoff, then call a plumber about the line.
Book soon, within a few days
- IfA slow leak is wetting a cabinet or wallThenClose the fixture's stop, dry the area and book a visit.
- IfSeveral drains are slow but still drainingThenUse water sparingly and schedule a diagnosis before it becomes a backup.
- IfThe meter shows a leak but nothing is visibleThenSchedule leak detection; water may be going under the slab.
- IfYou have no hot waterThenCheck the pilot or breaker per the manufacturer; if that does not fix it, book a visit.
Can wait or DIY
- IfA faucet drips from the spoutThenSchedule at your convenience, or replace the cartridge if you are comfortable.
- IfA single sink is slowThenClean the stopper or trap; call only if that does not help.
- IfA toilet runs occasionallyThenTry a new flapper; close the stop between uses if needed.
- IfAn aerator or shower head sputtersThenClean it in vinegar.
Urgency at a glance
| Problem | Urgency | Your first move |
|---|---|---|
| Gas smell | Emergency | Leave; call 911 or SoCalGas from outside |
| Burst pipe | Emergency | Close the main |
| Sewage backup | Emergency | Stop using water; stay away from it |
| Leaking water heater tank | Urgent | Close cold inlet; shut off gas or power |
| Hidden leak on the meter | Soon | Book leak detection |
| Dripping faucet | Can wait | Schedule or DIY |
Why waiting sometimes costs more
A small leak under a sink is cheap to fix and expensive to ignore once it soaks the cabinet floor and subfloor. A slow sewer line is easy to clear before it backs up into a shower. The goal is not to call for every drip, but to deal with water that is going somewhere it should not before it has time to do damage.
Common questions
Should I call 911 for a burst pipe?
Not for water alone. Close the main and call a plumber. Call 911 if there is a gas smell, fire, or a serious electrical hazard.
Is a sewer smell an emergency?
A faint smell from an unused drain is often a dry trap; run water to refill it. A strong, persistent smell or any backup should be checked soon.
What if my main shutoff will not close?
Try the valve at the meter if you can safely reach it. Otherwise, call a plumber and the water provider listed on your bill.
General information for La Palma, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.