During an emergency plumbing repair, the plumber usually makes the situation safe first, then finds the cause of the problem and carries out a repair, either a permanent one or a temporary fix if a full repair is not practical straight away. Every job is different, but this general order helps you know what to expect.
Knowing the likely steps can make a stressful situation feel more manageable. It also helps you prepare, such as clearing access to the affected area and the stopcock.
Making the Situation Safe
The first priority is usually to stop water escaping and reduce any risk. This may involve isolating the supply at the stopcock or a local isolating valve, or stopping the use of affected fixtures. If water has reached electrical equipment, the plumber may advise that this is checked by an appropriate professional before power is used in that area.
Finding the Cause
Once things are under control, the plumber will look for where the problem is coming from. This is not always obvious. Water through a ceiling, for example, may come from a pipe, a joint, a waste connection or a seal, and it may travel some distance before it appears.
Finding the actual source matters, because repairing the wrong part will not solve the problem. The plumber may need access to cupboards, panels or ceiling spaces to see the pipework.
It can help to explain what you noticed first, when it started and anything you have already done, such as turning off the stopcock or closing a valve. Details like this can make the cause quicker to narrow down, particularly if the leak has stopped by the time the plumber arrives.
Carrying Out the Repair
Depending on what is found, the repair may involve replacing a worn part, remaking a joint or replacing a damaged section of pipe. If the right parts are not available or access is difficult, a temporary repair may be used to make the situation safe until the permanent work can be done.
You should be told what has been found and what is involved before the main repair goes ahead, including anything that may affect the cost.
After the Repair
Once the work is complete, the supply is usually restored and the repair checked to make sure it is holding. The plumber should explain what was done, whether any further work is needed and anything to keep an eye on.
Damaged ceilings, flooring or decoration may need separate repair once the area has dried out. If you plan to make an insurance claim, ask for a short note of what was found and what was repaired, and keep any photographs you took before the work started.
Our urgent plumbing repair page explains more about how urgent faults are assessed and repaired.
If you have an urgent plumbing problem, a plumber can talk through what you are seeing and explain how the repair is likely to be approached.