Home emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe flooding your living room, a gas smell that won’t go away, or an electrical panel that’s stopped responding, knowing what to do — and who to call — in the first few minutes can significantly limit the damage. This guide covers LA’s most common home emergencies and your first response steps.
Plumbing Emergencies
Burst or leaking pipe: Shut off the main water supply immediately. The main shut-off valve is typically near your water meter at the street, or under the house if you have a raised foundation. Once the water is off, call a licensed plumber. If water has reached electrical outlets or panels, do not re-enter that room until the power is confirmed off.
Sewer backup: Stop using all water and drains in the home immediately. A backed-up sewer can release harmful gases. Call a licensed plumber with a sewer camera to diagnose the blockage — many LA properties have root intrusion in aging clay sewer laterals. For a licensed plumber serving Burbank and the San Fernando Valley, our local services guide has vetted recommendations.
Water heater failure: If the unit is actively leaking, shut off the cold water supply line to the heater and cut power (electric) or gas (gas unit). A tank that’s leaking from the bottom typically needs full replacement.
Gas Emergencies
If you smell gas inside your home:
- Do not turn any lights or switches on or off
- Do not use your phone inside the house
- Open windows and doors as you exit
- Leave and call SoCalGas (1-800-427-2200) and 911 from outside
- Do not re-enter until cleared by the gas company
Electrical Emergencies
If you experience a partial or total power outage:
- First check your circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers
- Check LADWP’s outage map online to see if the issue is city-wide
- For sparking outlets, burning smells, or breakers that immediately trip again — call a licensed electrician. Do not attempt DIY electrical repairs.
Flooding and Water Intrusion
During heavy LA rainstorms, properties with drainage issues can flood. If water enters your home:
- Document everything before cleanup with photos and video
- Contact your homeowner’s insurance company immediately
- Begin removing standing water as quickly as possible to limit mold risk — mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours
The FEMA emergency preparedness guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for home disaster planning, including what to keep in an emergency kit and how to prepare before a crisis hits. For local emergencies, the City of Los Angeles emergency resources page provides real-time information on municipal emergencies, evacuation orders, and service disruptions.
Earthquake Response
LA’s primary natural disaster risk is earthquake. Post-quake priorities:
- Check for gas leaks (smell) and visible structural damage before re-occupying
- Inspect water heater and its connections — these are commonly dislodged
- Shut off gas if you suspect a leak
- Check your water supply — earthquakes can disrupt municipal water infrastructure
When to Call a 24/7 Emergency Plumber
Active water intrusion, sewer backups, and hot water heater failures all qualify as plumbing emergencies that warrant after-hours service. The cost premium for emergency calls is significant ($150–$300 emergency dispatch fee is common), but the cost of unchecked water damage almost always exceeds it. For a 24/7 emergency plumber in Burbank and surrounding areas, Michael’s Valley Plumbing provides emergency service throughout the San Fernando Valley.
For more on choosing reliable local plumbers and home service contractors, see our guide to Home Plumbing in Los Angeles.