When a plumbing emergency strikes, panic can quickly set in, water’s gushing, drains are backing up, or the hot water’s completely gone. But the steps you take in those first few moments can make a huge difference in limiting damage and keeping your home safe.
Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing to do in nearly any plumbing emergency is to shut off the water.
- For burst pipes or major leaks, turn off the main water valve, usually located near the water meter at the front of your property.
- For isolated issues like a leaking toilet or tap, use the isolation valve near the fixture.
Knowing where your water shut-off points are before an emergency happens is a good habit for every homeowner.
Switch Off the Hot Water System
If the issue involves your hot water system, or you’ve turned off the mains, it’s best to switch off the heater as well, especially for electric or gas systems. This prevents pressure build-up or further damage to your unit.
For gas systems, turn off the gas at the valve.
For electric systems, switch off the circuit at the switchboard.
Contain the Problem (If Safe)
Grab some towels, buckets, or mops to contain minor flooding or leaks.
Move furniture, rugs or electrical appliances away from the affected area to minimise water damage.
Important: Never wade through standing water if there’s a chance it could be in contact with electrical outlets or appliances. Safety first.
Don’t DIY If You’re Unsure
Trying to fix plumbing yourself can sometimes make things worse, and in some cases, it’s actually illegal in Australia for unlicensed individuals to carry out plumbing work.
If you’re not 100% sure of what you’re doing, it’s best to leave it to the pros. You could risk further damage, flooding, or void your home insurance.
Call a Licensed Plumber
This is where we come in.
At Collis Bros Plumbing, our team of licensed plumbers is on call for urgent plumbing situations across Sydney. Whether it’s a burst pipe, blocked drain, broken toilet, or failed hot water system, we respond fast, equipped to fix the issue properly the first time.
Take Photos for Insurance (If Applicable)
If the emergency results in damage to your home, it’s smart to take photos or videos of the affected area. This can help with any insurance claims and speed up the process.
Common Plumbing Emergencies We Handle
- Burst pipes and water leaks
- Blocked or overflowing drains
- Broken toilets or tapware
- Gas leaks
- No hot water
- Stormwater flooding or sewer backups
Why Choose Collis Bros Plumbing in an Emergency?
- Fully licensed and insured
- Prompt response across Sydney
- Honest advice and upfront pricing
- Emergency repairs and long-term solutions
- Local team with years of experience
Tip: Prevention is key. Regular plumbing maintenance can reduce your risk of emergencies, ask us about our inspection services.
Need Help Now?
Don’t wait for water damage to get worse. Call Collis Bros Plumbing for fast, reliable emergency plumbing support.