Plumbing work: what to do in case of a leak or emergency

The first 10 minutes

• Shut off the main valve of the apartment or house. In an apartment building this is usually in the bathroom or kitchen service shaft.
• If the valve doesn't hold or the leak is in the riser, notify the building manager or homeowners' association immediately.
• If water has reached electrical wiring, outlets, or light fixtures, switch off the relevant circuit and don't touch wet devices.
• Limit the spread: move towels, a bucket, a rug out of the way, lift furniture.
• Notify neighbours below and beside you if water may have reached them.

Document before cleaning up

Take photos and a short video: the leak point, the extent of the water, damaged surfaces and items. Note down the time. This material is needed both to get an accurate quote and to communicate with insurance or the association.

When is it an emergency and when is it regular work

Emergency work usually has a separate call-out fee and a higher hourly rate, especially in the evening and on weekends. Ask for that figure before the call-out.

• Emergency: water is flowing and can't be shut off, sewage is backing up, the leak is damaging neighbours.
• Urgent: a dripping connection that is temporarily under control.
• Regular work: replacing a mixer tap or toilet, planned renewal of pipework.

What to describe in the request

• Whether the water is currently shut off or not.
• Where the leak is: wall, floor, radiator, connection, sewage.
• Property type and floor, access.
• Whether the damage also affects a neighbour.
• Photos of the leak point and an overview shot.
• Whether you want only the leak stopped or also the finish restored.

After the repair

Let it dry before restoring the finish — covering a damp structure leads to mould. Ask the contractor for a written overview of what was replaced and keep it together with the photos.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify someone immediately in case of a leak?

In an apartment building, yes — the building manager or association, since the leak may affect the riser and neighbours. In case of immediate danger, call 112.

How quickly can I get help through Ehitusabi24?

In the emergency and urgent work category, the request is seen by providers who have chosen that category. Speed depends on the region and time of day — in a real emergency, shut off the water and call the on-call service directly.