Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for a convenient moment. They strike suddenly and have the audacity to flood your bathroom in the middle of the night, soak your walls during a family dinner, or cause a basement backup just before guests arrive. In those critical moments, knowing exactly what to do can mean the difference between minor damage and major repairs. Having an emergency plumber in Memphis that you can call fast, no matter the day or time, is a must. 

Here are five essential steps every homeowner should follow during a plumbing emergency to minimize damage, stay safe, and protect your home.

1. Shut Off the Water Immediately

The first and most important action in any plumbing emergency is to stop the flow of water. This will at least stop the incessant flow of water that can lead to more damage. The longer water continues to escape, the more extensive the damage will be.

Many homes have shut-off valves that will turn off the water to individualized or local areas. If you have this available, it will be a valve on nearby plumbing. This shuts off all water to that specific area. This will work only for a localized issue, such as a leaking toilet or sink or potentially even a burst pipe in some cases. For larger leaks and bigger problems, you may need to turn off the main water shut-off valve, which is typically near your water meter, in your basement or garage, or in a utility area of the home. 

Pro Tip: Make sure everyone in your household knows where the shut-off valves are and how to use them. A quick response can save you thousands in repair costs.

2. Turn Off Your Water Heater (If Needed)

If the plumbing emergency involves hot water, such as a broken hot water pipe or a leak near the water heater, it’s essential to turn off the water heater to prevent overheating or damage to the tank. How you turn off the water heater will depend on whether it is electric or gas. 

• For electric water heaters, switch off the unit at the breaker panel.
• For gas water heaters, turn the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.

This is a precautionary step to help prevent pressure from building up inside the water heater and leading to bigger problems or even injuries. 

3. Address Standing Water and Protect Belongings Before Calling Your Emergency Plumber in Memphis

Once the water is off, your next goal is to limit damage to your home and belongings. Mold and structural issues can begin in as little as 24-48 hours, so early action is crucial.

Here’s what to do:

• Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water.
• Move furniture, electronics, rugs, and valuables away from the affected area to prevent further damage.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs if the pieces can’t be moved.
• Open windows and doors to increase airflow and ventilation.

Be very careful of potential electrical hazards in standing water. If there is any threat of electrical contact from an affected outlet or a plugged-in appliance, do not enter the area. The power to that area of the house will likely need to be turned off, and a professional should handle these details. 

4. Call a Licensed Emergency Plumber in Memphis

Some plumbing emergencies may seem manageable, but many issues are more complicated beneath the surface. A licensed plumber will have the tools, training, and experience to assess the damage, locate the source, and repair it properly.

Common plumbing emergencies that require professional help include:

• Burst or frozen pipes
• Overflowing toilets or sewer backups
• Sudden drops in water pressure
• Major leaks behind walls or ceilings
• Water heater leaks or malfunctions

When you call the plumber, clearly describe the problem to them, mention any steps you have already taken, and ask for an estimated arrival time. In emergent situations, you want plumbers who will respond quickly, even when it’s after hours. Most plumbers will prioritize plumbing emergencies that include flooding, gas lines, or sewage. You need to be sure you are clear about the urgency. 

5. Document the Damage for Insurance Purposes

If your plumbing emergency results in significant damage such as soaked walls, warped flooring, or damaged possessions, you may need to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider. Thorough documentation will make this process smoother.

To prepare for a claim, you can: 

• Take photos and videos of the affected areas from multiple angles
• Make a list of damaged belongings, including estimated values
• Save receipts for emergency repairs or plumber services
• Keep a record of communications with your plumber and insurance adjuster

Most policies cover “sudden and accidental” water damage but do not cover damage due to poor maintenance or long-term leaks. Acting quickly and keeping detailed records helps support your case.

Bonus Tips: How to Prepare for Plumbing Emergencies in the Future

While no one can prevent every plumbing disaster, you can lower your risk and respond faster with a little preparation:

• Know your plumbing system and identify shut-off valves and the main shut-off
• Perform regular maintenance and maintain receipts or proof of doing so
• Create a plumbing emergency kit. Include an adjustable wrench, plumber’s tape, towels and sponges, buckets, wet/dry vacuum, flashlight, and local plumber contact

Being proactive and knowing what steps you can take might just save your home from significant damage or issues. Always be prepared, and don’t wait until an emergency to find a trusted plumber in your area. 

Need an Emergency Plumber in Memphis? Count on Stewart Plumbing Home Services

The truth is that responding to a plumbing emergency quickly and correctly will make all the difference. Yes, a plumbing emergency will be stressful, but when you know how to respond and who to call, you can manage the inconvenience so much better. Let Stewart Plumbing Home Services be your go-to plumbers for emergencies and more. Contact us today.