Problem guide
Water leak in the house: what to do
Reduce the risk without touching a dangerous installation, then describe the leak clearly enough to prepare the next step.
The first minutes of a water leak
If water is near an outlet, appliance, or electrical wire, move away and do not touch anything. If the area is safe, place a container under the flow and close an accessible valve only if you know it operates normally. Do not force a stuck valve or dismantle a wall, ceiling, or appliance to look for the source.
A leak that continues, spreads quickly, or appears through a ceiling needs prompt attention. If a person, electricity, gas, the building, or drinking water is at risk, use the appropriate emergency service.
How to describe the leak
Before requesting a match, note what is visible:
- the room and the exact place where water appears;
- a fitting, appliance, wall, ceiling, or floor that is affected;
- a continuous flow or a leak linked to a faucet, toilet, or appliance;
- other fixtures that leak, gurgle, or no longer drain;
- anything that has already been shut off or moved.
You do not need to identify the cause. “Water appears through the bathroom ceiling when the upstairs shower is used” is more useful than a guessed diagnosis.
Visible leak or hidden damage?
The amount of visible water does not always measure the risk. A slow leak can soak a wall or floor; a larger leak may be contained if the supply is shut off quickly. A professional can assess access, piping, fittings, and damage that cannot be confirmed remotely.
Prepare a plumber request
Share your municipality, problem type, urgency, a number where you can be reached, and this short description. With your consent, Plombier Connect calls eligible plumbers for you; the professional confirms their own availability, timing, and price.
See first steps in a plumbing emergency or the water leak service page.
Safety source
Protect your home and property in case of flooding — Gouvernement du Québec