Emergency Home Repairs: When to Call Now vs. When to Wait
Temp Services Editorial Team
Home Service Cost Experts
Not every home problem is an emergency, but some issues require immediate attention to prevent costly damage or safety hazards. Knowing the difference can save you thousands in emergency service fees—or prevent a minor issue from becoming a catastrophe.
True Emergencies That Require Immediate Action
Some situations demand you stop everything and call for help immediately. Gas leaks (smell of rotten eggs or hissing near gas lines) require evacuating and calling your gas company. Active water flooding from burst pipes needs the water main shut off immediately. Electrical sparking, burning smells, or a hot electrical panel are fire hazards. Sewage backing up into your home is a health emergency. For these situations, call emergency services even if it's 3 AM on a holiday—the cost of waiting far exceeds the emergency service premium.
Urgent But Not Emergency Situations
These problems need attention within 24-48 hours but don't require middle-of-the-night calls. A water heater not producing hot water is uncomfortable but not dangerous. A single clogged drain (when others work fine) can wait for regular business hours. AC failure during a heat wave is urgent but can often wait until morning. A non-functional refrigerator gives you about 4 hours before food safety becomes a concern if you keep the door closed. For these, call first thing in the morning rather than paying 2x emergency rates.
Problems That Can Wait for a Scheduled Appointment
Many issues feel urgent in the moment but can safely wait for a convenient appointment. A slowly dripping faucet wastes water but won't cause immediate damage. Minor roof leaks during a rainstorm (catch the water in a bucket) can wait for dry weather. Cosmetic damage like a broken cabinet door or chipped tile has no deadline. Appliances that work but make new noises should be checked soon but aren't emergencies. For these, schedule regular appointments and avoid premium pricing.
How to Handle After-Hours Emergencies
When true emergencies strike outside business hours, know your options. Many utility companies have 24/7 emergency lines for gas and electrical issues—these are often free or low cost. Keep a list of contractors you've used before who offer emergency service. If calling a new company, verify they're licensed before they arrive. Get a price quote before authorizing work—some companies take advantage of emergencies. Take photos of the problem and any damage for insurance purposes.
Preventing Emergencies Through Preparation
The best emergency is one that never happens. Know where your water main shutoff, gas shutoff, and electrical panel are located. Keep basic tools accessible: plunger, adjustable wrench, flashlight, and duct tape for temporary fixes. Maintain your major systems—annual HVAC service and water heater flushing prevent many failures. Build relationships with reliable contractors before you need emergency help. Keep emergency numbers posted where everyone in the household can find them.
✓ Key Takeaways
- Gas leaks, flooding, electrical sparks, and sewage backup are true emergencies—call immediately
- Most other issues can wait for regular business hours to avoid premium rates
- Know where your water, gas, and electrical shutoffs are located
- Keep a list of trusted contractors before emergencies happen
- Take photos of damage for insurance before cleanup begins