When you call an emergency plumber, it helps to ask what you should do in the meantime, how the problem will be assessed and how costs will be explained before work starts. Clear answers to these questions help you make decisions calmly, even when water is escaping.
A good conversation at the start also gives the plumber a better picture of what they may find.
What Can I Safely Do Right Now?
This is often the most useful first question. Depending on the situation, you may be advised to turn off the stopcock, stop using a particular sink or toilet, or keep away from an area where water is near electrics.
Only do what is safe. If the stopcock is stiff or hard to reach, say so rather than forcing it.
How Will the Problem Be Assessed?
Plumbing symptoms can have several causes. Water through a ceiling, for example, may come from a pipe, a fitting, a waste connection or something else entirely. It is reasonable to ask how the plumber will look for the cause and whether the first visit is likely to involve making the problem safe before a full repair.
You can also ask whether the plumber is likely to need access to particular rooms, cupboards or ceiling spaces, so you can clear the way before they arrive.
Some situations need a temporary repair first, with a more permanent repair arranged afterwards. Knowing this in advance avoids surprises.
How Are Costs Explained?
Prices for emergency work depend on what is found, so many plumbers will not give a fixed figure over the phone. You can still ask:
- How the cost of the work will be worked out
- Whether you will be told what is involved before any work goes ahead
- What might change the amount of work needed
Factors such as access to pipework, the parts needed and whether further investigation is required can all affect the work.
What Information Do You Need From Me?
Asking this question helps the plumber prepare, and it also helps you gather your thoughts while the situation is stressful. They may want to know where the problem is, how long it has been happening, whether the water is clean or wastewater, and whether you have been able to turn off the supply.
If you live in a flat or rented property, mention this too, as it may affect who else needs to be told about the problem and how the water can be isolated.
If you are looking for an emergency plumber for your Poole home or business, our homepage explains the urgent plumbing problems we deal with and how to get in touch.
If you are dealing with an urgent plumbing problem, a plumber can talk through what you are seeing and explain the next step.