Pipe Disasters 101: What They Are and When to Call for Assistance

Posted by North Shore Emergency Plumber on 5 Jan 2026

Plumbing emergencies are a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Burst pipes, clogged drains leaky fixtures, gas leaks can cause serious damage to your property and put the safety of your family at risk.

It’s important to address these issues quickly and effectively to limit the damage and keep your home safe. In this article, we’ll discuss the most frequent types of plumbing emergencies and what to do in the event in the event of an emergency.

Common Plumbing Emergencies

Burst Pipes

The causes of burst pipes

The majority of burst pipes are caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes or high pressure water.

The signs of bursting pipes

Signs of burst pipes include low water pressure, strange noises coming from pipes, wet spots on walls or ceilings, as well as a decrease in water quality.

What to do in case of a pipe burst

If you suspect that there is a ruptured pipe, shut off water to the source right away and contact an experienced plumber.

Clogged Drains

Causes of clogged drains

The majority of blocked drains are caused by the buildup of hair, soap scum, and other debris that has accumulated in pipes.

Signs of clogged drains

Signs of clogged drains include slower draining of the water, loud gurgling sounds emanating from pipes, and foul smells.

What to do in the event of a drain that is clogged

Try making use of a plunger, or a drain snake to unclog the drain. If none of these solutions work, contact an experienced plumber.

Leaking Fixtures

Causes of leaking fixtures

Leaking fixtures are typically caused by worn or damaged parts.

Evidence of fixtures that are leaking

The signs of leaking fixtures are water spots that drip, wet areas on ceilings or walls, and an unexpected increase in water bills.

What to do in the event of a leaky fixture

Try tightening loose connections, or replacing damaged parts. If this isn’t enough to solve the problem, call a professional plumber.

Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are caused by a variety of reasons.

Gas leaks are often caused due to damaged pipes or defective gas appliances.

Gas leaks are a sign of trouble.

Signs of gas leaks are whistling or hissing sound near gas appliances, a rotten egg smell, and dizziness or headaches.

What to do in the event of an gas leak

If you suspect a gas leak, you should evacuate your home immediately and contact an expert plumber.

When should you call for professional Assistance

Importance of calling a professional plumber

Professional plumbers have the knowledge of experience, expertise, and the equipment to tackle plumbing emergencies efficiently and quickly. If you attempt to fix an issue with plumbing yourself could put your life and safety at risk.

Signs that indicate you need professional help

Signs that you require professional help include a sudden rise in your water bills and a drop in the quality of your water and the inability to resolve the issue yourself.

What can you expect to find out when you contact for assistance

When you call a professional plumber, you can expect a quick response time and a thorough evaluation of the problem, and an upfront estimate of cost.

Prevention Tips

Regular plumbing maintenance

Regular maintenance of plumbing can help prevent plumbing emergencies in identifying small problems before they turn into larger ones.

Simple steps to avoid common plumbing problems

Simple ways to prevent common plumbing issues include using drain screens, not pouring grease down drains and avoiding flushing things that aren’t flushable in the toilet.

When is the best time to schedule plumbing inspections

Conduct plumbing inspections each year or bi-annually to find and correct potential problems before they escalate into emergency situations.

Conclusion

Emergencies with plumbing can prove stressful and expensive, however addressing these issues quickly and efficiently will reduce the harm and protect your family. Remember to call an expert plumber for assistance and to take preventive measures to avoid plumbing issues that are common. With these suggestions will make sure that your plumbing system runs smoothly and avoid expensive and stressful situations. If you’re experiencing a plumbing emergency do not hesitate to contact North Shore Emergency Plumber at 0480 024 332. Our team of highly skilled and knowledgeable plumbers are available 24 hours a day to assist you with any issue you might be confronted with.

Commonly asked questions (FAQs)

What should I do in the case of an emergency plumbing situation?

In case of a plumbing emergency, turn off the main water supply immediately and make a call to a professional plumber.

Can I solve a plumbing issue by myself?

It’s not recommended to try to repair a plumbing problem yourself. It could put your life and property at risk. It’s recommended to call an experienced plumber to help.

How do I know when I should call to get help from a professional?

Signs that indicate you need professional help include a sudden increase in your water bill, a decrease in the quality of water and inability to solve the issue by yourself.

What can I do to prevent plumbing emergencies from happening?

You can avoid plumbing emergencies from occurring by scheduling regular maintenance of your plumbing, taking simple steps to avoid typical plumbing problems, making sure you schedule plumbing checks annually or bi-annually.

What should I look for in an experienced plumber?

Look for a professional plumber who is insured, licensed and experienced. They also have a good reputation.

How much does it cost to employ an experienced plumber?

Cost of employing an experienced plumber will vary based on the type of emergency and the severity of the damage. Contact North Shore Emergency Plumber for an upfront cost estimate.