Quick answer: If the problem risks water damage, health hazards, or home systems (burst pipe, active leak, sewage backup, gas smell), treat it as an emergency and call a plumber now. If it’s a slow drip, minor clog, or cosmetic faucet leak, you can usually schedule a repair during normal hours.
If you live near Boulder, the Best plumbing contractor in boulder co can help you decide over the phone whether the situation requires urgent service or can safely wait. Many plumbing emergencies look small at first, but delay can lead to costly damage.
The challenge for most homeowners is knowing the difference. Some plumbing issues feel urgent but are not dangerous, while others seem minor and turn serious fast.
This guide breaks down how to tell what qualifies as a true plumbing emergency, what can wait, and what steps to take next so you can act with confidence instead of panic.
How to decide fast: 6 simple rules
- Is water flowing where it shouldn’t?
If water is pouring from a pipe, ceiling, or wall, shut off the water and call for help. Active leaks cause fast, expensive damage. - Is the leak large or spreading?
A steady stream or a spreading wet spot is an emergency. A single slow drip can usually wait a few hours or until morning. - Is there sewage or raw water backup?
Raw sewage in drains, toilets, or yard is a health hazard. Call a plumber now. Don’t use the sink or toilet. - Do you smell gas?
Gas smells mean danger. Evacuate, call your gas company and emergency services, then contact a plumber who handles gas lines. - Is hot water gone house-wide or is a water heater leaking?
A leaking water heater or no hot water with obvious damage needs quick attention. - Is the problem stopping key systems?
No water to the whole house, a burst pipe under the slab, or frozen pipes that might burst are urgent.
Common plumbing issues and whether they are emergencies
Burst pipe , Emergency
A burst pipe can flood rooms in minutes. Turn off the main water valve, move furniture and call a plumber. Burst pipes often require immediate repair and drywall or floor drying to stop mold.
Major leak in ceiling or wall , Emergency
If water is coming through a ceiling or wall, it can harm wiring and structure. Turn off water and electricity in the affected area if safe, then call for help.
Sewage backup , Emergency
Sewage contains bacteria and toxins. Stop using plumbing and call an emergency plumber.
No water to the whole house , Often urgent
This could be a main shutoff issue or a municipal problem. Check neighbors, then call your supplier or a plumber.
Gas line smell , Emergency
Leave the house immediately and call emergency services and your gas provider.
Water heater leak , Usually urgent
Small puddles might wait a short time, but a leaking tank can fail quickly and flood a basement.
Clogged drain (slow sink or shower) , Usually can wait
A slow drain is annoying, but not an emergency. Try a plunger or a simple drain cleaner safe for your plumbing first. If the clog is in the main line or causes backups, call a plumber.
Running toilet that won’t stop , Usually can wait
It wastes water and money but rarely needs an emergency call. Try replacing the flapper or float if you’re comfortable.
Minor drip from a faucet , Can wait
A small drip is not an emergency. Schedule a repair to avoid water waste and wear.
What to do right now when facing plumbing issues
- Stay calm and assess.
Look at where the water is coming from. Is it a drip or a flood? - Turn off water if needed.
For big leaks, turn the nearest shutoff. If the whole house is involved, use the main shutoff valve. - Cut power if water is near outlets or appliances.
Only do this if it is safe. Water and electricity are dangerous together. - Move valuables and electronics.
Get furniture, rugs, and boxes out of the water’s path. - Contain small leaks.
Put buckets under drips and use towels to limit spread. - Call the right help.
For emergencies, call a 24-hour plumber or emergency service. If unsure, call and describe the problem , many contractors can triage by phone. - Document damage for insurance.
Take photos and note times. This helps claims later.
Costs and timing , what to expect
Plumbing jobs vary in price. Small fixes often cost a fraction of major repairs. For example, HomeAdvisor reports that typical plumber jobs fall between about $180 and $496, with an average near $338. Emergency or after-hours calls usually cost more.
Drain cleaning averages around $242 for common clogs, but a mainline clog or sewer issue will cost more.
Big repairs, like repiping or major slab leaks, can be costly. Forbes and other home-improvement resources note that home maintenance and repair bills have been rising, so prevention helps avoid large surprise costs.
When to call now vs. when to wait until morning
Call now if:
- Water is gushing.
- You have sewage backup.
- Gas is smelled.
- A major appliance or water heater is failing or leaking heavily.
Wait and schedule if:
- The issue is a slow drip.
- A single fixture is clogged but toilets still work.
- You can contain the leak and it isn’t near electrical wiring.
If you’re unsure, it’s okay to call a trusted local plumber for advice. Many offer short phone consults and will tell you if an immediate visit is needed.
Prevention tips to avoid emergencies
- Know where your main shutoff valve is and how to use it.
- Insulate exposed pipes before winter.
- Don’t flush wipes or grease down drains.
- Schedule yearly checks for your water heater and visible pipes.
- Replace old hoses on washing machines every 5 years.
- Fix small leaks promptly, they often get worse.
Common home-owner plumbing questions
Q: How long can a slow leak wait?
A: A slow leak can often wait a day or two if you collect water and monitor it. But fix it soon to avoid mold and higher bills.
Q: Is mold immediate after a leak?
A: Mold can start to grow within 24–48 hours in damp conditions. Dry areas quickly and call pros for big water events.
Q: Will insurance cover burst pipes?
A: Many home policies cover sudden events like burst pipes, but they may not cover damage from long-term leaks. Check your policy and document damage.
Q: How much is an emergency plumber?
A: Emergency service fees vary. Expect higher rates after hours, weekends, or holidays. HomeAdvisor data gives a sense of typical costs.
Final tips
When in doubt, treat anything that can flood, pollute, or risk safety as an emergency. Quick action saves money and stress. Keep a plumber’s number saved, know your shutoff, and do small maintenance tasks to prevent big problems.
