Home / Emergency checklist
What to do in a plumbing emergency
A few quick steps while you wait for the plumber.
1. Shut off the water
Turn the main shutoff clockwise until it stops. On most homes here it's in one of two places:
- On the house: a valve on the outside wall, usually near a hose bib where the line comes out of the ground.
- At the meter: in the box near the street or sidewalk.
2. Water heater leaking?
- Close the cold water valve on top of the heater.
- Turn the gas knob to off, or flip its breaker.
- If you smell gas, leave the house and call Southwest Gas or 911 from outside.
3. Sewage coming up?
- Stop flushing toilets and running water.
- Keep kids and pets away.
- Don't use chemical drain cleaners.
4. Call us
Call (480) 485-3127. We answer 24 hours a day and a licensed local plumber is on the way.
Common questions
My shutoff won't turn. What now?
Don't force it. Try the shutoff at the meter box, then call. We can talk you through it.
Should I call my insurance company?
Stop the water and call a plumber first. Then take photos and call your insurer.
