Is a broken tap an emergency?

Is Your Broken Tap an Emergency? Assessing the Need for Urgent Plumbing

A broken tap constitutes a plumbing emergency if it results in uncontrolled flooding or significant damage to your property. Determine the severity by checking whether the water flow stops when you shut off the main supply using the master valve.

Emergency tap repairs are necessary in the event of burst pipes with non-stop, uncontrollable high-pressure flow; extensive flooding; or significant damage to walls, floors, or base structures.

In cases of unstoppable water flow from a damaged tap or the main water valve, immediately call for emergency services to prevent further property damage. Our skilled team offers around-the-clock emergency plumbing services for prompt leaking tap repairs.

According to fair trading laws, landlords must undertake urgent repairs stipulated in your tenancy agreement; failure to do so allows tenants to seek their rights, whether for taps in a rented property or a private home. If you’re unsure of your next steps, consult local plumbing specialists or apply to the tribunal for guidance.

Recognising Urgent Repair Needs for Your Broken Tap

Immediate repair of a broken tap is warranted if you notice:

• Water spraying out of the tap opening uncontrollably, suggesting the pipe might inflict serious damage
• A sudden drop in water pressure at other taps indicating a wider issue
• Loud noises resembling a dripping tap or gurgling sounds emanating from the faucet
• Visible water damage on walls or cabinets near the tap
• The sink or basin filling up with water unexpectedly
• The tap handle coming loose or falling off

These symptoms may suggest a burst pipe scenario that escalates beyond major leaking pipe issues, potentially leading to flooding, structural damage, or mould if left unchecked. Our responsive team is available after hours to expertly handle leaking tap repairs and assess further urgent plumbing issues. Contact your home insurance provider to understand your coverage for plumbing emergencies.

Through the span of your tenancy, we’re dedicated to resolving your dripping tap dilemmas and upgrading antiquated galvanised pipes or servicing adaptable washer jumper valves, thereby reducing the peril of tap dysfunctions.

Taking immediate action for a broken tap

When dealing with broken pipes, damage, or an unmanageable leaking tap—particularly one connected to your hot water system—follow these steps promptly whilst awaiting emergency help to tackle a potential blocked drain:

1. Find and turn off the property’s main water valve to isolate it from the rest of the property and halt the water supply.
2. If there’s a risk of electrocution, turn off power at the switchboard and check that smoke alarms are working.
3. Relocate valuables and electrical items from the water’s path, and especially in a gas leak, to prevent damage.
4. Carefully try to shut off the water to just the tap turned if possible, or remove tap handle for safety
5. Minimise water leakage using towels or a bucket.
6. Capture photos and video evidence to document the water damage your property is sustaining; asking yourself 'what do I need for my insurance claim?'
7. Check other water outlets to see if the issue is isolated or wider spread
8. understand the steps in a pipeline crisis, it’s best to call a plumber on 1300 349 338 for pressing help and guidance

For safety during a 24hour emergency, keep children and pets away from the affected area in case electric cords or appliances have been compromised.

Temporary fixes for a broken tap before the plumber arrives

While awaiting a plumber, you can implement the following temporary solutions for leaking tap issues:

• Place a bucket or container under the spot where you’ve shut off water to your leaking tap to catch the dripping water
• Use waterproof tape to wrap small cracks or holes as a short-term seal
• If it’s an isolated issue, turn water off just at that faulty tap
• Wedge something soft into the tap opening to obstruct water flow
• Lay towels around the area to limit water travel and damage

Remember that these are temporary measures; only a professional plumber can identify and fix the underlying problem permanently. Avoid turning the main water supply back on until the professionals have completed qualified repairs and indicate it’s safe to do so.

The objective is to limit additional damage and disruption after implementing safety measures. In an emergency, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 1300 349 338 - our team is prepared to respond at any hour.

Engaging a Professional Plumber for Your Broken Tap

When faced with a broken tap that is continuously leaking or spraying water, it is essential to call emergency services to have a professional, licenced plumber properly evaluate the issue and conduct repairs.

As a leading provider of plumbing services located in North Ryde, we service all types of properties, whether for your home business needs, with our team of experts fully equipped to handle emergency broken tap situations and prevent further water damage or disruption. We operate across Sydney, encompassing the eastern suburbs with our team of expert sydney plumber, and are available any time to take your call on 1300 349 338.

The plumbing services we offer include hiring a professional plumber, ensuring peace of mind that it’s not just fixing a dripping tap, but the root cause will be addressed correctly. Our plumbers are well-versed in tackling any plumbing problem, including emergency water heater issues, able to isolate your water service, replace a faulty tap washer or valves, or install new taps as needed - providing lasting solutions.

We provide assurances for parts and labour, standing behind our work with confidence. Our plumbers focus on delivering safe and fast repairs, aiming to complete the job efficiently and reduce costs and inconvenience for you. Don’t take chances trying DIY fixes - trust our licenced plumber north of Ryde to handle your broken tap emergency.

Questions to ask the plumber about your broken tap

When discussing your broken tap with a plumber, important questions to consider include:

• What is causing the tap to leak or spray uncontrollably?
• Do you need repair replacement of internal components like washers or the valve seat, or perhaps the installation of a completely new tap?
• How much will repairs cost, including labour and any necessary parts?
• How long will repairs take and when can the tap be usable as soon as possible?
• Is there a warranty or guarantee on the repairs and any new components installed?
• Could the broken tap or a potential issue with a water pipe indicate wider problems with your plumbing system?
• What measures do I undertake to prevent tap damage in the future?
• would servicing components such as the washer jumper valve diminish the risk of subsequent tap failures?

Asking the right questions to our plumbing team is key to ensure they do repairs efficiently when facing an emergency with a broken tap both quickly and cost-effectively. Our team is always ready to answer queries and ensure leaking tap repairs are carried out for emergency leak situations in your house.

Preventing broken taps in your home

Regular Maintenance Checks

Regular tap maintenance inspections at least twice a year can help avoid breakages, prevent leaks, and reduce unexpected repair issues. This includes:

• Inspecting tap handles and tap body for cracks or corrosion
• Checking for leaking taps or leaks when taps are turned on
• Ensuring the flow of water from a leaking tap can be managed with water pressure that is not excessive (below 500 kPa)
• Testing that tap handles turn smoothly without getting stuck
• Cleaning aerators and filters to prevent blockages

Replacing Old Taps

When a tap reaches beyond 10-15 years, it’s time to proactively consider replacing it to sidestep worries that may precipitate a failure breakdown. Older tap fixtures often exhibit wear tear internally over decades of use. Upgrading to new water efficient taps improves functionality and can save on water bills.

Isolation Valves

Having isolation valves fitted helps to avoid dripping taps by ensuring control during maintenance. This can also enable taps to be serviced or replaced without shutting off the water to other outlets in the home.

Water Pressure Regulators

Overly high mains water pressure can lead to early onset of tap wear and leaks. A pressure limiting valve helps protect your plumbing and turn water supply off when necessary and can apply regulated flow rates to remain below 500 kPa as recommended.

We aim to not only resolve your broken tap issues but also prevent future inconveniences. For assistance with any plumbing emergencies or concerns, from maintenance to upgrades, please contact our team.