What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency? (And What to Do Until Help Arrives)
Plumbing problems can strike without warning - and when they do, they can cause massive damage fast. Knowing what counts as a true plumbing emergency can protect your home and save you from costly repairs.
At Clays Plumbing, we’ve handled countless urgent callouts across the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie, and we know how critical it is to act quickly and safely before help arrives.
This guide explains which problems require emergency plumbing services, and what you can do right now to reduce the damage.

What Is Considered a Plumbing Emergency?
(Emergency Plumbing Situations Every Homeowner Should Know)
Not all plumbing issues are urgent — but some need an emergency plumber immediately to prevent flooding, contamination, or serious structural damage.
Here are the most common plumbing emergencies we respond to across the Central Coast:
Burst Pipe Emergency
- Sudden water spraying or flooding
- Soaked walls, ceilings, or floors
- Rapidly climbing water bills
First-aid steps:
- Shut off your main water valve immediately
- Open taps to relieve pressure
- Call Clays Plumbing for a fast-response emergency plumber Central Coast
Sewer Backup or Overflow
- Raw sewage coming up through sinks, tubs, or toilets
- Gurgling drains and slow-flushing toilets
- Strong sewage odours around your property
First-aid steps:
- Stop using water anywhere in the home
- Keep children and pets away from the area
- Call Clays Plumbing for same-day emergency plumbing and sanitisation
No Water Supply or Sudden Water Loss
- No water coming from any taps
- Extremely low water pressure
- Often caused by a burst main line or underground leak
First-aid steps:
- Check if your neighbours have water
- If it’s just your property, call Clays Plumbing for 24/7 plumbing advice and emergency response
Gas Leaks or Gas Smells
- Rotten egg smell inside or outside
- Hissing noises from gas pipes
- Dizziness or nausea indoors
First-aid steps:
- Turn off your gas at the main meter
- Evacuate immediately
- Call emergency services and Clays Plumbing (licensed gas fitters)
How to Limit Damage While Waiting for Emergency Plumbing Help
While you wait for Clays Plumbing’s emergency plumbing team, you can:
- Turn off water at the main shutoff valve
- Switch off your hot water system
- Mop up standing water to prevent structural damage
- Keep pets and children away from the affected area
- Take photos of the damage for insurance claims
Acting quickly can save thousands in repairs and make your emergency plumber’s job faster and easier.
Why Choose Clays Plumbing for Emergency Plumbing in the Central Coast
Clays Plumbing is your trusted local expert for emergency plumbing across the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie, offering:
- Rapid response for burst pipe emergencies
- Immediate action for sewer backups and overflows
- Helpful 24/7 plumbing advice over the phone
- Fully licensed and insured emergency plumbing team
We’re based in Wyee, NSW 2259, and can be at your property quickly when you need us most.
Call Clays Plumbing — Your 24/7 Emergency Plumber
When it comes to emergency plumbing, every minute matters. Don’t wait for small issues to turn into disasters — call us now.
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