A pipe bursts at 11pm on a Sunday. Water is pooling across the kitchen floor, the ceiling is dripping, and every plumber you call has an after-hours voicemail. What you do in the next 30 minutes matters more than anything the plumber does when they finally arrive. Quick action can be the difference between mopping up a puddle and filing a $20,000 insurance claim.
This emergency plumbing guide covers exactly what to do when a plumbing disaster strikes your Australian home, what qualifies as a genuine emergency, what it costs after hours, and the mistakes that make things worse.
If you are not in an emergency right now, start with our guide on how to hire a licensed plumber in Australia.
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
This is the single most important thing you can do. Every second water keeps flowing, the damage grows.
Find and use the main shut-off valve:
Your main water shut-off valve is usually located near the water meter at the front of your property, close to the boundary line. In apartments, it is typically inside a cupboard near the kitchen or laundry, or in a common service area.
- Turn the valve clockwise (righty-tighty) until it stops. Most Australian homes have a gate valve (round handle) or a ball valve (lever handle). Ball valves need a quarter turn. Gate valves need several full turns.
- Open a tap inside the house to confirm the water has stopped. If water still flows, the valve may be seized or you may have turned the wrong one.
- If the valve is seized, do not force it with pliers or a wrench. You risk snapping it. Call your water authority for an emergency shut-off at the meter. In most states, the water authority can isolate your supply at the street within 30 to 60 minutes.
Use isolation valves for localised problems:
Not every emergency needs a full shut-off. Most modern Australian homes have isolation valves (also called stop taps) at individual fixtures.
- Toilets. Small chrome tap on the wall behind or beside the cistern. Turn clockwise.
- Sinks and basins. Under the vanity or kitchen bench. Two taps: one hot, one cold.
- Washing machine. Behind the machine or in a laundry cupboard. Two taps.
- Hot water system. Cold inlet valve on the pipe feeding into the unit. Turn this off to stop water flowing through the system.
Tip: Walk through your house and tag every isolation valve with a coloured cable tie. When water is spraying at midnight, you do not want to be searching with a torch.
Step 2: Switch Off the Electricity
Water and electricity are a lethal combination. If water is leaking near power points, light fittings, or electrical appliances, turn off the power immediately.
How to do it safely:
- Go to your switchboard (usually in the garage, laundry, or outside near the meter box).
- Switch off the main breaker or the circuit breakers for the affected area.
- Do not touch any electrical fitting or appliance if you are standing in water or if the fitting is wet.
- If there is any doubt about electrical safety, call your electricity distributor’s emergency line. They operate 24/7.
If a hot water system is leaking, switch off the circuit breaker for the hot water unit. For gas hot water systems, turn the gas control to “off.”
Step 3: Contain the Damage
Once the water is off and it is safe to act, your job is to limit how far the water spreads.
Practical damage control steps:
- Towels and buckets under active drips and leaks. Old bath towels absorb roughly 2 litres each.
- Mop and wet vacuum standing water off hard floors immediately. The longer water sits on timber, the more it warps.
- Move valuables, electronics, and paperwork away from the wet area. Water wicks through carpet underlay and can reach items several metres from the visible leak.
- Open windows and doors for ventilation. Mould can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions.
- Ceiling leak? If the ceiling is bulging with water weight, place a bucket underneath and carefully puncture the lowest point of the bulge with a screwdriver. A controlled drain is far better than waiting for the ceiling to collapse.
Step 4: Document Everything
Before you clean up and before the plumber arrives, take photos and video. This step is for your insurer, your landlord (if renting), and your own records.
What to capture:
- Where the water is coming from (the source of the leak, if visible)
- How far the water has spread (wide shots of the affected area)
- Damage to floors, walls, ceilings, and belongings
- The time and date (your phone camera does this automatically, but note it anyway)
- Any visible cause (cracked pipe, failed fitting, corroded joint)
Why this matters. Most home insurance policies in Australia cover sudden and accidental water damage (burst pipes, failed fittings) but exclude gradual damage (slow leaks you ignored). Your photos establish that the damage was sudden.
Renters: notify your landlord or property manager immediately. Under residential tenancy laws in every state, emergency repairs must be arranged within 24 hours. If you cannot reach the landlord, you can authorise emergency repairs up to a capped amount ($1,800 to $2,500 depending on the state).
What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?
Not every plumbing problem needs an emergency call-out. Understanding the difference saves you hundreds of dollars in after-hours fees.
Genuine emergencies (call a plumber now):
- Burst pipe with uncontrolled water flow
- Sewage backing up into your home (health hazard)
- Gas leak (call your gas emergency line first: 1800 GAS LEAK / 1800 427 532)
- No water supply to the entire property
- Major flooding from a failed hot water system
- Blocked drain causing water to enter living areas
Urgent but can wait until morning:
- Dripping tap (turn off the isolation valve)
- Slow-draining sink or shower (still draining, just slow)
- Running toilet cistern (turn off the isolation valve behind the toilet)
- Minor leak under a sink (place a bucket, turn off isolation valves)
- Hot water system producing lukewarm water (not dangerous, just annoying)
Can wait for a weekday appointment:
- Noisy pipes (water hammer)
- Low water pressure across the house
- Toilet that needs jiggling to stop running
- Outdoor tap dripping
- Old tapware that needs replacing
The rule of thumb. If water is actively flowing where it should not be, or if sewage or gas is involved, it is an emergency. If you can isolate the problem with a valve and live without that fixture for 12 hours, it can wait.
How Much Does an Emergency Plumber Cost in Australia?
Emergency plumbing is significantly more expensive than standard work. Here is what to expect.
| Fee Type | Standard Hours | After Hours / Weekends | Public Holidays |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call-out fee | $80 to $150 | $150 to $300 | $200 to $350 |
| Hourly rate | $85 to $150/hr | $150 to $250/hr | $200 to $350/hr |
| Typical emergency repair (burst pipe, blocked drain) | $200 to $500 | $400 to $900 | $500 to $1,200+ |
Why after-hours rates are higher. Licensed plumbers charge penalty rates for work outside standard hours (Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm). Weekend rates are 1.5 to 2 times the weekday rate. Public holidays and late-night call-outs can be double or more.
How to manage emergency plumbing costs:
- Ask for the total cost upfront. A reputable emergency plumber will quote a call-out fee plus an estimated repair cost before they arrive. If they refuse, call someone else.
- Confirm the call-out fee structure. Some plumbers charge the call-out fee on top of the hourly rate. Others include the first 30 minutes. Ask which model they use.
- Get a written quote before major work. If the repair is over $500, ask for a written quote even in an emergency. You have the right to this under Australian Consumer Law.
- Check your insurance. Many home and contents policies cover emergency call-out fees for insured events. Lodge your claim early.
For a full breakdown of standard plumbing costs, see our guide on how much plumbing rough-in costs for a new home.
Step 5: Call an Emergency Plumber and Prepare for Their Arrival
Before you call, shut off the water (Step 1), confirm it is a genuine emergency (see the section above), and have your address ready.
When you call, tell the plumber:
- Your address and suburb
- What has happened (burst pipe, sewage backup, gas smell)
- What you have done so far (water shut off, electricity off)
- Whether the problem is getting worse or is contained
Ask these questions before agreeing:
- What is your call-out fee and after-hours hourly rate?
- How long until you can arrive?
- Are you a licensed plumber? (Ask for their licence number)
Verify their licence. Even in an emergency, spend 60 seconds checking the plumber’s licence on TradieVerify’s search page. An unlicensed plumber can leave you liable for faulty work and void your insurance. With over 7,500 licensed plumbers listed across QLD and ACT alone, a quick search gives you peace of mind.
While you wait, prepare the site:
- Clear a path to the affected area (move furniture, rugs, and boxes)
- Provide access to the water meter and main shut-off valve (unlock gates, move bins)
- Turn on outdoor lights if it is dark
- Secure pets in another room
- Have your photos and notes from Step 4 ready to show
If you live in an apartment or townhouse, contact your body corporate or building manager. They may need to provide access to common plumbing infrastructure (risers, pump rooms, main shut-off valves).
Common Emergency Plumbing Scenarios and What to Do
Burst Pipe
Shut off the main water valve immediately. Open taps at the lowest point in the house to drain remaining water from the pipes. A burst pipe in a wall or ceiling cavity will need the plumber to cut an access hole, so clear the area of furniture and wall hangings.
Blocked Sewer or Drain Backing Up
Do not use any drains, toilets, or taps connected to the blocked line. Do not pour chemical drain cleaners down a fully blocked drain. They pool on top of the blockage, create toxic fumes, and can damage older clay or PVC pipes. If sewage is entering your home, keep children and pets away.
Leaking or Burst Hot Water System
Turn off the cold water inlet valve to the unit. For electric systems, switch off the circuit breaker. For gas systems, turn the gas valve to “off.” A tank leaking from the base has likely corroded through and will need replacement. Leaking from the pressure relief valve may indicate excessive pressure or a faulty valve rather than a failed tank.
Gas Leak
Stop reading and act immediately. Do not turn on any electrical switches or appliances. Do not use your phone inside the house. Evacuate with your family and pets, then call the national gas emergency line: 1800 427 532. Gas leaks cause explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. Read more in our gasfitter hiring guide.
Overflowing Toilet
Turn off the isolation valve behind the toilet. If there is no valve, lift the cistern lid and hold the float arm up to stop water filling the cistern. Do not flush again. A single overflowing toilet with clean water can usually wait until business hours.
What NOT to Do During a Plumbing Emergency
Panic leads to mistakes that make things worse and more expensive.
- Do not ignore a small leak. A pinhole leak under mains pressure will erode into a burst within days or weeks.
- Do not use duct tape or garden hose clamps as a permanent fix. These are not rated for mains water pressure (350 to 500 kPa). If you must slow a drip for a few hours, use self-fusing silicone tape.
- Do not pour boiling water down a blocked drain. PVC pipe (common in Australian homes built after the 1970s) can soften and deform at high temperatures.
- Do not try to fix gas plumbing yourself. It is illegal in every Australian state to do gas work without a licence.
- Do not hire an unlicensed plumber to save money. Emergency work by an unlicensed operator is not covered by statutory warranties and can void your home insurance. Verify the plumber’s licence on TradieVerify before they start work.
- Do not delay calling your insurer. Most policies require notification “as soon as reasonably practicable.”
After the Emergency: Next Steps
Once the plumber has fixed the immediate problem, there are several things to sort out.
Within 24 hours:
- Get a copy of the plumber’s invoice showing their licence number, the work done, and any parts used
- Lodge an insurance claim if the damage is significant (most policies have an excess of $500 to $1,000)
- Check for hidden water damage behind walls, under carpet, and in ceiling cavities
Within one week:
- If the plumber recommended further work (e.g., replacing old galvanised pipes), get quotes from two more licensed plumbers for comparison
- Check that any compliance certificates have been lodged with your state regulator
Prevent the next emergency:
- Label all shut-off valves in your home with coloured cable ties
- Install water leak detectors near your hot water system, under sinks, and beside the washing machine ($20 to $50 each)
- Save the number of a reliable licensed emergency plumber in your phone. Search for licensed plumbers in your area on TradieVerify
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my main water shut-off valve?
In most Australian homes, the main shut-off valve is near the water meter at the front of the property, close to the boundary line. It is usually in a small pit or box at ground level. In apartments, check the laundry cupboard or a common service corridor. If you cannot find it, ask a licensed plumber to locate and tag it during a routine visit.
Can my landlord charge me for emergency plumbing repairs?
No. Under residential tenancy laws in every Australian state, landlords are responsible for emergency repairs including burst water pipes and serious leaks. If you cannot reach your landlord, you can authorise emergency repairs up to a capped amount ($1,800 to $2,500 depending on your state) and the landlord must reimburse you. Keep all receipts and document the emergency with photos.
Is it worth calling an emergency plumber for a blocked toilet?
It depends. If a single toilet is blocked but you have another toilet in the house, it is usually not worth paying after-hours rates. Turn off the isolation valve, do not flush, and call a plumber during business hours. If sewage is backing up through floor drains or multiple fixtures are affected, that indicates a main sewer blockage and is a genuine emergency.
Will my home insurance cover emergency plumbing?
Most home and contents policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes and storm damage. They typically do not cover gradual leaks or wear and tear. The policy usually covers the resulting water damage and may cover the emergency call-out fee, but rarely covers the cost of replacing the pipe itself. Check your Product Disclosure Statement to confirm.
How long should an emergency plumber take to arrive?
Most emergency plumbing services in Australian metro areas aim for 30 to 90 minutes. In regional areas, expect one to three hours. If the plumber quotes longer than two hours and your situation is worsening, call another provider. Always ask for a specific estimated arrival time.
Do emergency plumbers charge if they cannot fix the problem on the spot?
Yes. You will still pay the call-out fee and time spent diagnosing the problem. A good emergency plumber will make the situation safe even if the full repair requires parts or daylight access. If the plumber cannot help at all, you should only be charged the call-out fee, not labour time. Clarify this before they attend. For tips on trade pricing, see our tradie payment terms guide.
Key Takeaways
- Know your shut-off valves before an emergency happens. The main valve is near the water meter at the front of your property. Individual fixtures have their own isolation taps.
- Shut off water first, then electricity if water is near electrical fittings. Never touch wet electrics.
- Not every plumbing problem is an emergency. If you can isolate it with a valve, it can usually wait until business hours and save you $150 to $300 in after-hours fees.
- Document the damage immediately with photos and video for your insurance claim.
- Always verify the plumber’s licence, even in an emergency. A 60-second search on TradieVerify confirms they are licensed and qualified.
- After-hours emergency plumbers charge $150 to $350 call-out fees plus $150 to $250 per hour. Ask for the total cost upfront before they attend.
Search for licensed plumbers in your area on TradieVerify and save a trusted emergency plumber’s number in your phone before you need one.
Related Guides
- How to Hire a Licensed Plumber — Our plumber hiring guide
- Plumbing Licences — Our plumbing licences guide
- How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost? Full 2025–2026 Price Guide — Our bathroom renovation costs
Sources
- Queensland Building and Construction Commission. “Plumbing and Drainage Licensing.” https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/licences/licence-categories/plumbing-drainage
- Victorian Building Authority. “Plumbing Practitioners.” https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/plumbing
- NSW Fair Trading. “Emergency Repairs for Renters.” https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/renting/during-a-tenancy/repairs-and-maintenance
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. “Consumer Guarantees on Services.” https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/consumer-rights-guarantees/consumer-guarantees
- Insurance Council of Australia. “Home Insurance: What’s Covered.” https://www.insurancecouncil.com.au/for-consumers/home-insurance/
- Master Plumbers Association. “Finding a Licensed Plumber.” https://www.masterplumbers.com.au/
- Plumbing Code of Australia, National Construction Code Volume Three. https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/editions/2022-3/ncc-2022-volume-three/
- Energy Safe Victoria. “Gas Safety in the Home.” https://esv.vic.gov.au/gas-safety/