A leaking pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a water heater that suddenly quits — plumbing problems rarely wait for a convenient time. As a licensed plumber in Aurora, CO, I’ve walked into a lot of homes where a few quick steps taken before I arrived saved the homeowner hundreds of dollars in water damage.
Here’s exactly what to do — and what to avoid — while you wait for help.
Quick Answer
Before a plumber arrives, shut off the water at the fixture or main valve, turn off power near any wet areas, clear a path to the problem, and gather details like when it started and what you’ve already tried. Avoid chemical drain cleaners and don’t run water until the issue is diagnosed.
In This Article
Shut Off the Water
Stopping water flow is the single most important step. It limits damage and gives your plumber a safer, drier space to work in.
- Localized leak (under a sink, behind a toilet): shut the valve closest to the fixture.
- Can’t find a local valve, or the leak is severe: shut off your home’s main water valve, usually near the water meter or foundation wall.
- Pipe burst: after shutting off the main, open the lowest faucet in the house to drain remaining pressure from the lines.
Protect Your Home
Once the water is off, focus on limiting damage to floors, walls, and electrical systems.
- Place towels or a bucket under any ongoing drip.
- Move rugs, furniture, and boxes away from wet areas — hardwood and carpet absorb water fast.
- If water is near an outlet, appliance, or breaker box, shut off power to that area at the breaker. Don’t touch electrical components while they’re wet.
- Take a few photos of the damage for your records — this helps if you file an insurance claim later.
Clear the Work Area
A clear path means your plumber can get to work immediately instead of moving boxes and furniture first.
- Clear out from under sinks — cleaning supplies, trash cans, stored items.
- Move anything stored near a water heater, boiler, or utility area.
- Keep pets in another room, and let kids know to stay clear of the work zone.
Dealing with a plumbing emergency right now? We’re ready to help.
Gather Information for Your Plumber
A few details ready before your plumber in Aurora, CO arrives can speed up diagnosis considerably.
- When did you first notice the problem?
- Has this happened before?
- Any unusual sounds, smells, or changes in water pressure?
- Have you already tried anything (plunging, tightening a valve, etc.)?
- Is the affected fixture or appliance under warranty?
What Not to Do
A few common instincts can actually make the problem worse before help arrives:
- Don’t use chemical drain cleaners. They rarely clear a real clog and can damage pipes, making the repair harder and more expensive.
- Don’t keep running water through the affected fixture “just to test it” — this can turn a small leak into a bigger one.
- Don’t ignore a gas smell. If you smell gas anywhere near the issue, leave the house and call your gas utility immediately — that’s a different emergency entirely. See our guide on gas line repair in Aurora, CO for full details.
- Don’t attempt electrical repairs near standing water.
Checklist by Common Issue
| Issue | Do This First | Related Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Clogged drain / backed-up toilet | Stop using the fixture; place a bucket if overflow risk exists | Clogged drain causes |
| No hot water | Shut off gas/power to the unit; close the cold-water inlet valve | Water heater troubleshooting |
| Running or leaking toilet | Shut the valve behind the toilet; place a towel under the base | Toilet repair or replace |
| Gas smell near an appliance | Leave the house; call your gas utility from outside | Signs of a gas leak |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I shut off my home’s main water valve during any leak?
Only if you can’t isolate the leak at a nearby fixture valve, or if the leak is severe. For a small, localized drip, shutting off the fixture valve is usually enough.
Is it safe to use a bucket or towels while I wait?
Yes. Containing water with towels or a bucket is a safe, effective way to limit damage until your plumber arrives.
Can I use a plunger before the plumber gets there?
A plunger is fine for a simple toilet or sink clog. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes and make diagnosis harder.
What if I don’t know where my main shut-off valve is?
Check near your water meter, in the basement, or along an exterior wall facing the street. If you can’t find it, mention this to your plumber so it can be located and labeled for next time.
Do I need to be home when the plumber arrives?
Yes, someone should be present to provide access and answer questions about the issue, unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
What should I do if the problem seems to be getting worse while I wait?
Call your plumber back and let them know. If it’s a safety issue like a gas smell or major flooding, evacuate the area and call from a safe location.
Licensed, insured, and ready to respond fast across Aurora, CO.
About the Author
Grig Plumbing is a licensed and insured plumbing company serving Aurora, CO and the greater Denver metro area, specializing in emergency plumbing, water heater services, drain cleaning, and gas line repair.