Problems that should not be ignored
- Water is flowing and will not stop
- Sewage is backing up into the home
- A ceiling, wall or floor is becoming wet quickly
- A water-heater leak is spreading
- A plumbing condition is near electrical equipment
Safe first steps while help is arranged
Keep people and pets away from sewage, standing water and any wet area near electricity. Stop using a fixture that makes the problem worse. If you already know the correct shutoff and can reach it without entering a hazardous area, turn off the affected fixture or the home’s water supply.
Do not touch wet electrical equipment, enter contaminated water or take apart equipment you are not trained to service. For fire, gas, electrical or immediate life-safety danger, contact the appropriate emergency service.
Know the main water shutoff before you need it
Every household should know where its main water shutoff is and keep the route to it accessible. Locations and valve types vary. If you are unsure, ask a plumbing professional to identify it during a routine visit instead of waiting for active water damage.
What to tell us when you call
- Your town and the safest callback number
- Where the water or backup is appearing
- Whether the water has been shut off
- Whether electricity, gas, sewage or a vulnerable person is involved