5 Signs You Need an Emergency Plumber

Most plumbing problems can wait for a normal appointment. But a genuine emergency gets worse by the hour, and knowing which is which can save you real money and real stress. Here are five signs it's time to stop waiting and call.

1. Water You Can't Stop

A burst pipe, a fitting that's let go, or a tap that won't shut off — if water is actively flooding out and won't stop, that's an emergency every time. Turn off your stopcock (the main water shut-off valve, usually under the kitchen sink or where the water pipe enters the house) and call immediately.

2. No Water at All

If your water has stopped completely, especially during cold weather, it could mean a frozen or burst pipe somewhere in the system. This is worth treating as urgent, particularly if you can't identify an obvious cause like a scheduled supply interruption in your area.

3. Sewage Smell or Backed-Up Drains

A bad smell from a drain, or water backing up out of a toilet or sink when you run another tap, points to a blockage further down the system. This isn't just unpleasant — it's a health hazard, and it tends to get worse, not better, if left alone.

4. Heating That's Leaking or Making Alarming Noises

A heating system that's dripping water, banging, or has simply died in the middle of winter needs prompt attention — both for comfort and to stop a small fault becoming a bigger, more expensive one. See our guide on what to check first when your heating stops working for a few quick checks before you call.

5. Water Coming Through a Ceiling or Light Fitting

Water tracking through a ceiling, especially near a light fitting, is both a plumbing emergency and a potential electrical hazard. If it's safe to do so, switch off the electricity supply to that area at the consumer unit, and call for help straight away.

While You Wait

• Know where your stopcock is before you need it — check now, not during a flood.
• Turn off water or electricity to the affected area if you can do so safely.
• Never attempt to repair gas components yourself — leave that to a qualified engineer.
• Move anything valuable away from the water and use towels or a bucket to limit damage.

If you're facing any of the above in Crawley or the surrounding area, AVEC Plumbing Services offers a 24/7 emergency callout — call or WhatsApp and we'll talk you through it.