Knowing where your stopcock is before you need it is the single most useful piece of plumbing knowledge a homeowner can have.
If you smell gas
Do not touch electrical switches or use a naked flame. Open doors and windows, turn the gas off at the meter, leave the property and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999. Only once it is made safe should remedial work be booked with a Gas Safe engineer.
Burst pipe or major leak
Act in this order:
- Turn the water off at the internal stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink.
- Open all cold taps to drain the system down.
- Switch off the electricity at the consumer unit if water is anywhere near wiring or lights.
- Contain what you can with buckets and towels, and photograph the damage for insurance.
What counts as an emergency
Uncontrolled water, no heating in freezing weather with a vulnerable occupant, a suspected gas leak, a sounding carbon monoxide alarm, or sewage backing up all warrant an immediate callout. A dripping tap can wait for a normal appointment.
Our emergency cover
We run 24/7 emergency callouts across Birmingham and surrounding areas, with the price agreed before we start.
Want it done for you?
If you want your plumbing or heating problem fixed professionally for you, contact Matt Plumbing & Heating today for fast, reliable service across Birmingham and surrounding areas.
