Know Your Water Shutoffs Before an Emergency
The single most important thing every LA homeowner can do right now is locate their main water shutoff valve. In most homes it's near the street at the meter box, or where the main line enters the home. Individual fixture shutoffs are under every sink and behind every toilet. Knowing where these are — and that they work — can save thousands in water damage when something goes wrong.
1. Burst Pipe or Major Water Leak
Action: Immediately turn off the main water supply to your home. Open a faucet to release pressure. If there is standing water near electrical panels, outlets, or appliances — do not enter and call us immediately. Document all damage with photos for your insurance company. Call Plumbing 405 at (310) 218-1796 for emergency response. Do NOT attempt to rejoin burst pipe ends yourself — this requires professional repair.
2. Sewage Backup
Action: Stop using all water-consuming fixtures immediately. Do not flush toilets or run drains — this forces more sewage back up. Keep family members away from affected areas. Raw sewage contains pathogens and is a health hazard. Do not attempt to clean up sewage without proper protective equipment. Call us for emergency sewer clearing and follow-up with a water damage restoration company if the backup is significant.
3. Gas Leak
Action: If you smell gas (rotten egg odor), leave your home immediately without using any electrical switches, lights, or appliances (including your phone — wait until you are outside). Once safely outside, call 911 and Los AngelesGas at 1-800-427-2200. After the gas company clears the scene, call Plumbing 405 for gas line inspection and repair.
4. Water Heater Failure / No Hot Water
Action: For an electric heater, check the circuit breaker first and reset if tripped. For a gas heater, check if the pilot light is out and follow the relight instructions on the unit. If there is any water leaking from the tank, turn off the water supply to the heater (cold water inlet valve on top) and call us. A leaking tank requires immediate replacement — it cannot be repaired.
5. Toilet Overflow or Overflowing Fixture
Action: Immediately turn off the water supply to the toilet using the shutoff valve behind the base of the toilet. If the valve is stuck, turn off the main water supply. Remove the tank lid and push down the flapper to stop water flow temporarily. Do not keep flushing — this will make it worse. If the toilet is overflowing due to a clogged sewer line (other drains backing up simultaneously), call us immediately.