What Happens During an Emergency Plumbing Call-Out

A burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or water pouring through the ceiling is stressful enough without having to figure out what to do next. Here's what to expect when you call us for an emergency — and the most important thing to do the moment you notice the problem.

Step One: Turn Off the Water

This is the single most important thing you can do while you wait for us to arrive. Every second a burst pipe is running, water is damaging your home — flooring, walls, ceilings, and contents.

Your water meter and main shutoff valve is usually located:

• •Near the front of the property at the boundary
• •Under the kitchen sink
• •In a wall cavity or meter box near the front door

Turning it off stops the damage immediately, even if you can't find where the leak is coming from.

When You Call Us

When you call 1300 158 895 for a plumbing emergency, you'll speak to someone straight away — not a voicemail. We'll ask a few quick questions to understand what's happening and dispatch the nearest available plumber immediately.

For most of Brisbane Northside, we aim to arrive within 60 minutes.

What We Do On Arrival

When we arrive, we assess the situation quickly and methodically:

1. •Confirm the water is off (or turn it off at the main if it hasn't been done)
2. •Locate the source — this is sometimes obvious and sometimes requires opening a ceiling or wall
3. •Make the repair — burst pipes are usually fixed with a replacement section of pipe, compression fittings, or in older copper systems, soldered joints
4. •Test the repair under pressure before we leave
5. •Document the damage if you need it for insurance

What About the Water Damage?

We're plumbers, not restorers — but we'll help you start the process. We can recommend when to open windows, set up fans, and document what needs to go in an insurance claim. For significant water damage, you'll want to contact a professional drying service, but we'll point you in the right direction.

After-Hours Rates

Yes, emergency call-outs outside business hours do attract a higher rate — that's true of any trade. We'll tell you the cost upfront before we start any work. You'll never get an unexpected bill.

The Most Common Emergencies We Attend

• •Burst pipes — especially in older homes with copper or galvanised steel pipe
• •Sewage overflow — blocked sewer lines backing up through floor grates or toilets
• •Ceiling leaks — pipe joints failing above ceiling cavities
• •No hot water — element or thermostat failure
• •Blocked toilets — especially with young children in the house

For any plumbing emergency across Brisbane Northside, call 1300 158 895. We answer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.