Home Systems & Safety
Leak Triage Helper
Decide what kind of leak situation you may be seeing and what safe next steps to consider before calling help.
Leaks can make people panic. The first goal is not to fix everything yourself — the first goal is to stay safe, reduce damage if you can do so safely, and contact the right help.
Answer based on what you safely observe:
Where is the water showing?
Is water still actively flowing?
Is water near electricity (outlets, switches, panels)?
Is there staining, mold, sagging, or soft flooring?
Is this an apartment or shared building?
Leak Triage Checklist
0/12Stayed calm and assessed safety before touching anything
Checked whether water is near any electrical outlet, switch, or panel
If water near electricity — moved away and called qualified emergency help
Turned off water supply to affected fixture if safe and valve is accessible
Did not touch electrical devices in or near wet areas
Noted where the water is coming from or appearing
Noted whether water is still actively flowing
Checked for staining, mold, sagging, or soft flooring
If apartment — notified building management or landlord
Took photos for documentation if safe to do so
Opened Before You Call a Pro Helper to prepare call notes
Called qualified plumbing help for active, uncertain, or wall/ceiling leaks
Leak guidance is general triage only. Hidden leaks, ceiling leaks, water near electricity, mold, structural damage, water heaters, sewage, and active flooding require qualified professional help.
Know When to Call a Pro
Call qualified help for active leaks, ceiling leaks, water near electricity, sewage, mold, water heater leaks, soft floors, damaged walls, or if you are unsure.