What to do Before an Emergency Plumber Arrives in Philadelphia?
What to Do Before an Emergency Plumber Arrives in Philadelphia
Emergency Plumbing Education Series – Philadelphia
Written by: Derrick Jackson
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When water starts pouring from a burst pipe, a drain backs up into your basement, or your ceiling begins leaking, panic sets in fast. Most homeowners don’t know what to do in the first few minutes — and in older Philadelphia homes, those minutes matter.
In neighborhoods like West Philly, Germantown, Mount Airy, Overbrook, Brewerytown, South Philly, and the surrounding suburbs, quick action can prevent:
- Severe water damage
- Mold growth
- Insurance claim denials
- Expensive demolition
This guide walks you through exactly what to do before the emergency plumber arrives, step-by-step.
- Shut Off the Main Water Valve Immediately
This is the most critical step.
In most Philadelphia homes, the main shutoff valve is:
- In the basement (front wall)
- Next to the water meter
- Near the floor joists if the basement is unfinished
- In older homes — inside a crawlspace
Turn it clockwise until it stops.
If the valve is seized — which is very common in 40–100 year old homes — do not force it. Note the location and alert your emergency plumber immediately.
- Turn Off Electricity in Wet Areas
If water is dripping near:
- Outlets
- Light switches
- Ceiling lights
- Appliances
- Your electrical panel
Turn off the appropriate breakers — or the entire panel if necessary.
Never touch outlets or appliances if water is present.
- Capture, Contain, or Redirect Water
This prevents secondary damage.
Use:
- Buckets
- Towels
- Mops
- Shop vacs
- Plastic bins
Place them under leaks and stop water from spreading to:
- Hardwood floors
- Carpet
- Finished basements
- Furnace areas
- The electrical service panel
Every drop you contain reduces your repair bill.
- Document Everything for Insurance
Philadelphia insurance adjusters often deny or reduce emergency water claims if homeowners lack proper evidence.
Capture clear photos and videos of:
- The leak source
- Water running or dripping
- Damaged ceilings, walls, or floors
- Any personal items affected
- Standing water
- The plumber working once they arrive
This creates a strong timeline for your claim.
- Open Cabinets and Access Panels
Keep warm air circulating around plumbing:
- Kitchen sink cabinets
- Bathroom vanity cabinets
- Utility access doors
- Basement wall panels
In row homes, pipes behind cabinets and plaster walls freeze and burst faster — warm airflow reduces risk.
- Note Any Unusual Noises
A burst pipe is often preceded by:
- Banging
- Clanging
- Hissing
- Running water sounds behind walls
Quickly noting these sounds helps your plumber locate the issue without tearing open unnecessary walls.
- Move Children, Pets, and Electronics Away
Emergency plumbing scenes can expose:
- Wet electrical cords
- Slippery surfaces
- Contaminated water
- Exposed nails or wood
Keep your family safely clear of the work zone.
- Clear a Route to the Leak
Cluter and narrow stairways slow plumbers down.
Before they arrive:
- Clear hallways
- Move boxes from basements
- Unlock the front door
- Remove pets from the path
- Move furniture blocking wall access
Faster access = faster repair = less damage.
- Do NOT Use Any Plumbing Fixtures
Using:
- Toilets
- Sinks
- Showers
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
…can push more water toward the damaged line.
Let the plumber assess the system first.
- Prepare Questions and Key Information
Have ready:
- When the leak started
- What noises you heard
- Photos or videos
- Past plumbing issues
- Locations of all shutoff valves
- Any recent renovations
This information saves diagnostic time and reduces repair costs.
About the Author – Derrick Jackson
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Derrick Jackson is a trusted emergency plumbing, water damage, and mold inspection expert serving homeowners across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience, Derrick owns and operates Precision Plus Plumbing and Advantage Mold, two companies known for rapid response, expert diagnostics, and honest, homeowner-first service.
Derrick is the author of two homeowner education books, “Got Mold” and “Precision Service Experience.” His work has helped families better understand water damage, hidden leaks, mold risks, emergency plumbing situations, and how to choose qualified contractors without being overcharged or misled.
To learn more about Derrick’s mission and homeowner education resources, visit www.DerrickCJackson.com.
Through thousands of real emergency calls and property investigations, Derrick has built a reputation for using education, transparency, and science-based solutions to solve problems the right way — not the expensive way.