Work down the list
Stop at the first statement that is true.
- IfWater is near outlets, cords, the panel or appliancesThenAct now. Close the main water shutoff. Switch off circuits only if you can reach the panel standing somewhere dry; otherwise stay away and call 911.
- IfWater is pouring and you cannot stop it at a fixture valveThenAct now. Close the main shutoff, then call a plumber.
- IfSewage is coming up into a tub, shower or floor drainThenAct now. Stop all water use, keep people and pets away, then call a plumber.
- IfYou have no water at allThenCheck with your water utility for outages first; if none, call a plumber today.
- IfThe water heater is leaking from the tank or you have no hot waterThenCall today. Shut off the heater's water supply and its gas or power if it leaks.
- IfThe meter spins with everything off, or a floor is warmThenCall today. Close the main if the loss is significant and arrange leak detection.
- IfSeveral drains are slow or gurgle togetherThenCall today and limit water use; the main lateral may be restricted.
- IfOne fixture drips, runs or drains slowlyThenBook for regular hours. Close that fixture's stop if needed.
Quick reference
| Urgency | Examples | First move |
|---|---|---|
| Act now | Gas smell, uncontrolled water, sewage backup, water near electrical | Get safe, close the main, keep people away |
| Call today | Leaking water heater, hidden leak signs, whole-house slow drains, only toilet broken | Limit use, isolate the fixture or heater |
| Can wait | Dripping faucet, running toilet, one slow drain, planned upgrades | Note it in a symptom log and get quotes |
After the immediate danger
- Document.Photos and video before cleanup.
- Check the plumber.Even in a hurry, ask for the CSLB license number and confirm it at cslb.ca.gov.
- Get the price first.Ask how the visit is charged and get the repair price in writing before work starts.
- Call your insurer.For significant water damage, notify your insurance company.
Why the order matters
In a crisis, the instinct is to call someone immediately. But a phone call does not stop water, and a gas leak is a life-safety problem before it is a plumbing problem. Putting safety moves first, especially closing the main shutoff in a North OC house where the valve is usually right outside on the street-side wall, limits damage while you find a licensed plumber.
Common questions
Is a running toilet an emergency?
No, though it wastes water. Close the angle stop behind the toilet and fix it when convenient.
What if I am not sure whether it is sewage?
Treat dirty water coming up from drains as sewage: avoid contact and stop using water.
Should I call 911 for a flood?
Call 911 if there is a gas smell, an electrical hazard you cannot safely control, or anyone is hurt. Otherwise close the main and call a plumber.
General information for North Orange County, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.