Emergency Home Repairs: What to Do Before the Pro Arrives

Emergency Home Repairs: What to Do Before Help Arrives

When a pipe bursts at 2 AM or your furnace dies during a January cold snap, the actions you take in the first 15 minutes can mean the difference between a manageable repair and catastrophic damage.

This guide covers the most common home emergencies in the Greater Toronto Area, with step-by-step instructions for what to do immediately — before professional help arrives. Based on our experience handling emergencies across 498+ GTA projects, we've seen what works, what doesn't, and what homeowners wish they'd known sooner.

Save this page. You'll be glad you have it when you need it.

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Most Common GTA Home Emergencies by Season

Based on our service data from across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, and the wider GTA, here are the most common emergencies by season:

Winter Emergencies (December–March)

Emergency

Frequency

Avg. Repair Cost

|-----------|-----------|-----------------|

Frozen/burst pipes	38%	$350–$2,500
Furnace failure	25%	$200–$5,000
Ice dams / roof leaks	15%	$500–$3,000
Water heater failure	12%	$800–$2,500
Power-related issues	10%	Varies

Summer Emergencies (June–September)

Emergency

Frequency

Avg. Repair Cost

|-----------|-----------|-----------------|

AC failure	30%	$200–$4,000
Basement flooding	25%	$1,000–$10,000+
Deck/structural damage	20%	$500–$5,000
Sewer backup	15%	$500–$5,000
Window/door damage (storms)	10%	$200–$3,000

Spring and Fall

Spring brings snowmelt flooding and sump pump failures. Fall brings furnace startup issues and gutter-related water intrusion. Both seasons account for significant emergency calls as GTA homeowners transition between heating and cooling seasons.

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1. Burst Pipe: What to Do Immediately

A burst pipe can release 400+ litres of water per hour into your home. Speed is everything.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water — NOW

Where is your main water shutoff valve?

In most Toronto homes, the main shutoff valve is located:

• In the basement, near the front wall where the water line enters from the street
• Near the water meter — the valve is typically on the house side of the meter
• It's usually a gate valve (round handle, turn clockwise) or a ball valve (lever handle, turn 90° to perpendicular)

If you don't know where it is, stop reading and go find it right now. Label it clearly. Test it once a year to make sure it turns.

Step 2: Open Faucets to Drain Pressure

After shutting off the main valve, open several faucets (both hot and cold) to drain remaining water from the pipes. This reduces pressure and minimizes additional leaking.

Step 3: Turn Off the Water Heater

If the burst is on a hot water line, turn off your water heater to prevent it from running dry and overheating. For electric heaters, flip the breaker. For gas heaters, turn the gas valve to "pilot" or "off."

Step 4: Contain the Water

• Place buckets under active drips
• Use towels and mops to direct water away from electronics and furniture
• If flooding is significant, use a wet/dry vacuum if available
• Move furniture, electronics, and valuables to dry areas

Step 5: Document Everything

Before cleanup, take photos and video of all damage. This is critical for insurance claims. Document:

• The source of the leak
• All areas affected by water
• Damaged belongings
• Water levels (mark the wall if needed)

What NOT to Do

• ❌ Don't ignore a small leak — it will become a big leak
• ❌ Don't use electrical appliances in standing water
• ❌ Don't try to permanently repair a burst pipe yourself — temporary patch only
• ❌ Don't wait to call a plumber — water damage compounds by the hour
• ❌ Don't forget to turn off the water heater

Temporary Repair

For a small crack or pinhole leak while waiting for a plumber:

• Pipe repair clamp: available at hardware stores, clamps over the break
• Rubber patch + hose clamp: wrap rubber over the leak, secure with clamps
• Plumber's epoxy: for very small pinhole leaks on copper pipes
• Pipe repair tape: wrap tightly over the damaged area as a stopgap

These are temporary — professional repair or replacement is still necessary.

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2. Flooding Basement: What to Do

Basement flooding is the #1 most expensive home emergency in the GTA. A serious flood can cause $10,000–$50,000+ in damage when you factor in structural repairs, mold remediation, and content replacement.

Step 1: Electrical Safety FIRST

Before entering a flooded basement:

• If water is above electrical outlets or near your electrical panel, do NOT enter
• Turn off the breaker for the basement from the main floor panel (never touch a breaker panel while standing in water)
• If you can't safely reach the panel, call Toronto Hydro at 416-542-8000 to disconnect power

Step 2: Check Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump:

• Is it running? (you should hear the motor)
• Is it overwhelmed? (water rising despite pump running)
• Has it lost power? (check breaker, check GFCI outlet)
• Is the discharge line frozen? (common in Toronto winters — water backs up into pit)

If the sump pump has failed and you have a backup:

• Battery backup: should activate automatically
• Water-powered backup: requires adequate water pressure

If no backup exists, use a portable submersible pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove water. You can rent pumps from Home Depot or similar stores.

Step 3: Identify the Source

Source

Signs

Action

|--------|-------|--------|

Sump pump failure	Water entering from pit area	Repair/replace pump
Sewer backup	Foul smell, dark water from drains	Call plumber immediately
Foundation leak	Water seeping through walls/floor	Note location, call waterproofing
Overland flooding	Water entering through windows/doors	Sandbag, redirect water outside
Burst pipe	Clean water, visible pipe damage	Shut off water main

Step 4: Remove Water and Begin Drying

• Remove standing water as fast as possible — every hour of standing water increases mold risk
• Set up fans and dehumidifiers immediately
• Remove wet carpet, padding, and cardboard — these harbor mold rapidly
• Open windows if weather permits (improves air circulation)
• Drywall that has been submerged should be cut 12 inches above the water line and removed

Step 5: Call for Help

• Sewer backup: plumber immediately, then city (Toronto Water: 311)
• Overland flooding: city services through 311
• Foundation issues: waterproofing specialist
• Significant flooding: water damage restoration company

Insurance Tip

Standard home insurance typically covers sudden and accidental water damage (burst pipe, appliance failure) but does NOT cover:

• Sewer backup (requires separate endorsement — get this if you don't have it)
• Overland flooding (separate coverage, relatively new in Ontario)
• Gradual seepage or maintenance-related leaks
• Damage from known, unrepaired issues

Document everything before touching anything. Your insurance adjuster needs to see the damage.

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3. Furnace Failure in Winter

A furnace failure during a Toronto winter is more than an inconvenience — it's a safety emergency. Interior temperatures can drop below freezing within hours in extreme cold, putting pipes, family members, and pets at risk.

Immediate Steps

• 1. Check the thermostat: make sure it's set to HEAT and the temperature is set above current room temperature. Replace batteries if applicable.

• 2. Check the furnace filter: a severely clogged filter can cause a safety shutdown. If it's dirty, replace it and reset the furnace (turn off for 30 seconds, then back on).

• 3. Check the breaker: furnaces require electricity even if gas-fired. Check the furnace breaker and any switches on or near the furnace.

• 4. Check the gas supply: make sure the gas valve to the furnace is in the ON position (lever parallel to the pipe).

• 5. Check the exhaust vent: in heavy snow, the furnace exhaust vent (usually PVC pipe on the side of the house) may be blocked by snow or ice. Clear it.

If the Furnace Won't Restart

Prevent pipe freezing — this is your priority:

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to expose pipes to room heat
• Let faucets drip slightly (moving water is harder to freeze)
• Use safe supplemental heating:

- Electric space heaters (keep 3 feet from anything flammable)

- Fireplace (if you have one — open the damper)

- Oven: NEVER use a gas oven for heating — carbon monoxide risk

• If temperatures are dropping fast and you can't heat the home, consider:

- Shutting off the water main and draining pipes

- Temporarily staying elsewhere

When to Call for Help

• If the furnace is making unusual sounds (banging, squealing, clicking)
• If you smell gas (see Gas Leak section below)
• If the furnace is cycling on and off repeatedly
• If there's no heat output despite the furnace running
• If you see water pooling around the furnace

Cost Expectations

Issue

Cost Range

|-------|-----------|

Ignitor replacement	$200–$400
Blower motor	$400–$800
Control board	$300–$600
Heat exchanger	$1,500–$3,000
Full furnace replacement	$3,000–$5,000 (installed)

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4. Electrical Emergency

Electrical emergencies are the most dangerous home emergency — the risk of electrocution and fire is real.

Know Your Panel

Your electrical panel (breaker box) is typically located in the basement, utility room, or garage. Know:

• Where it is (can you find it in the dark?)
• How to turn off the main breaker (large switch at top or bottom)
• Which breaker controls which circuit (label them if they aren't already)

Common Electrical Emergencies

Sparking outlet or switch:

• 1. Don't touch it
• 2. Turn off the breaker for that circuit
• 3. If sparking continues or you smell burning, call 911
• 4. Call a licensed electrician

Burning smell from wiring or outlet:

• 1. Turn off the breaker immediately
• 2. If there's visible fire, use a Class C (electrical) fire extinguisher — never water
• 3. If fire spreads, evacuate and call 911
• 4. Even if the smell stops, call an electrician before using the circuit again

Power outage (your house only):

• 1. Check if neighbors have power — if it's area-wide, call Toronto Hydro (416-542-8000)
• 2. Check your main breaker — it may have tripped
• 3. Check your GFCI outlets — a tripped GFCI can affect multiple outlets
• 4. If your main breaker trips repeatedly, do NOT keep resetting it — call an electrician

When to Call ESA vs. an Electrician

Situation

Who to Call

|-----------|------------|

Immediate fire/safety risk	911
Downed power line	Toronto Hydro: 416-542-8000
Code violation concern	ESA (Electrical Safety Authority): 1-877-372-7233
Sparking, burning, malfunction	Licensed electrician
Power outage (area-wide)	Toronto Hydro: 416-542-8000

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5. Broken Window

A broken window is a security issue, an energy issue, and during Toronto winters, a pipe-freezing risk.

Immediate Steps

• 1. Safety first: wear thick gloves and shoes. Glass fragments are everywhere — including places you don't expect.
• 2. Clear the area: keep children and pets away.
• 3. Carefully remove large shards: place in a cardboard box, not directly in garbage bags (bag will tear).
• 4. Vacuum remaining glass: go over the area multiple times.

Temporary Fix

• Clear plastic sheeting + duct tape: seal the opening from both inside and outside
• Plywood: for larger openings or ground-floor security concerns, screw plywood over the frame
• Garbage bag: absolute last resort for small openings — not weatherproof or secure

Replacement Timeline

Window Type

Replacement Timeline

Cost

|-------------|---------------------|------|

Standard size (in stock)	1–3 days	$200–$600
Custom size	1–3 weeks	$400–$1,000
Specialty (bay, stained, etc.)	2–6 weeks	$500–$3,000+
Emergency board-up service	Same day	$100–$300

Security Concern

A broken ground-floor window is a security vulnerability. If you can't secure it properly:

• Install a temporary plywood cover (screwed, not taped)
• Inform your home insurance company
• Consider temporary security measures

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6. Ceiling Leak

A ceiling leak can be anything from a minor nuisance to a sign of serious structural damage.

Immediate Steps

• 1. Place a bucket or container under the drip
• 2. If the ceiling is bulging, poke a small hole in the center of the bulge with a screwdriver to release water into a bucket (controlled release is better than a ceiling collapse)
• 3. Move furniture and electronics away from the area
• 4. Look for the source: is there a bathroom above? A roof above? An attic?

Emergency vs. Can Wait

Sign

Urgency

Action

|------|---------|--------|

Active dripping from ceiling	Urgent	Contain water, find source, call today
Bulging, sagging ceiling	Emergency	Drain immediately, call now
Brown stain, no active drip	Monitor	Schedule inspection this week
Multiple spots, spreading	Urgent	Active leak somewhere — call today
Water near electrical fixtures	Emergency	Turn off breaker, call now
Drip during rain only	Roof leak	Schedule roof inspection
Drip not related to rain	Plumbing leak	Call plumber

Finding the Source

• Is it raining? Could be a roof leak. Check the attic if accessible — look for wet insulation, water trails on rafters.
• Is there a bathroom above? Check for toilet base leaks, shower pan leaks, supply line drips.
• Is there an appliance above? Washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerator ice makers are common culprits.
• Is it near an exterior wall? Could be ice dam-related in winter.
• No obvious source? Could be a condensation issue or a slow pipe leak within the ceiling cavity.

Cost Expectations

Repair

Cost Range

|--------|-----------|

Ceiling drywall patch (small)	$150–$400
Ceiling drywall patch (large)	$300–$800
Ceiling replacement (full room)	$800–$2,500
Plumbing repair (source)	$150–$1,500
Roof leak repair	$300–$3,000
Mold remediation (if delayed)	$1,000–$5,000+

Key takeaway: A ceiling leak that's ignored becomes a mold problem within 24–48 hours. Act fast.

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7. Garage Door Stuck

A stuck garage door is more than an inconvenience — it can be a safety issue, especially if your car is trapped inside during an emergency.

Manual Release

Every garage door with an automatic opener has a manual release:

• 1. Locate the red emergency release cord hanging from the opener track
• 2. Pull the cord down and toward the door — this disconnects the door from the opener
• 3. Lift the door manually — it should slide up on the tracks
• 4. Caution: if the door is in the UP position and you pull the release, the door may crash down. Always pull the release when the door is CLOSED.

⚠️ Torsion Spring Warning

NEVER attempt to repair or adjust garage door springs yourself. Torsion springs (the large coiled springs above the door) are under extreme tension — enough to cause serious injury or death. This is a job for a professional, every time, no exceptions.

Signs of a broken spring:

• Loud bang from the garage (spring breaking)
• Door is extremely heavy to lift manually
• Visible gap in the torsion spring coil
• Door opens partially then stops
• Opener motor runs but door doesn't move

Common Issues and Costs

Issue

DIY Fix?

Professional Cost

|-------|----------|-----------------|

Remote battery dead	✅ Yes	N/A
Photo eye misaligned	✅ Yes	$80–$150
Broken torsion spring	❌ Never	$200–$400
Broken cable	❌ Never	$150–$300
Opener motor failure	❌ Not recommended	$300–$600 (new opener)
Off-track door	❌ Not recommended	$150–$350
Panel replacement	❌ No	$200–$800 per panel

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8. Gas Leak — LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY

A gas leak is the most dangerous home emergency. Natural gas is explosive and can cause asphyxiation.

Signs of a Gas Leak

• Smell: rotten egg / sulfur odor (added to natural gas for detection)
• Sound: hissing or whistling near gas lines or appliances
• Sight: dead plants near gas lines, bubbles in standing water near lines
• Feeling: dizziness, nausea, headaches (gas exposure symptoms)

What to Do IMMEDIATELY

• 1. Do NOT flip any electrical switches — on OR off. A spark can cause ignition.
• 2. Do NOT use your phone inside the house — go outside first.
• 3. Do NOT light matches, candles, or lighters.
• 4. Open doors and windows as you leave (only if easy to do — don't delay evacuation).
• 5. Evacuate everyone — people and pets.
• 6. Go to a safe distance (across the street minimum).
• 7. Call 911 from outside.
• 8. Call Enbridge Gas emergency line: 1-866-763-5427 (available 24/7).
• 9. Do NOT re-enter until Enbridge or fire department gives the all-clear.

Gas Shutoff Valve

Your gas meter has a shutoff valve (typically requires a wrench to turn). Only turn this off if:

• You can do so safely without re-entering the building
• You know where the valve is and have practiced
• Emergency services are delayed

Most professionals recommend not touching the gas valve and instead evacuating and calling Enbridge. They respond quickly in the GTA.

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Toronto Emergency Contact Numbers

Save these contacts in your phone right now:

Emergency

Contact

Phone

|-----------|---------|-------|

Fire, Police, Ambulance	911	911
Enbridge Gas Emergency	24/7 emergency line	1-866-763-5427
Toronto Hydro	Power outages and downed lines	416-542-8000
Toronto Water	Water main issues, sewer backup	311
Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)	Electrical hazards, code violations	1-877-372-7233
Poison Control	Ingestion emergencies	1-800-268-9017
Toronto Building	Permit questions, structural concerns	416-397-5330
RenoHouse Emergency	Plumbing, repairs, restoration	289-212-2345

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What Qualifies as a 24/7 Emergency vs. Next-Day Repair?

Not every urgent situation needs a midnight service call. Here's how to tell the difference:

True 24/7 Emergencies (Call Immediately)

• 🚨 Gas leak (any suspicion)
• 🚨 Burst pipe with active flooding
• 🚨 Sewer backup into living space
• 🚨 Complete furnace failure when temperatures are below -10°C
• 🚨 Electrical fire or burning smell
• 🚨 Major ceiling collapse
• 🚨 Broken window or door (security risk)
• 🚨 Carbon monoxide alarm sounding

Urgent but Can Wait Until Morning

• ⚠️ Slow drip from pipe (contained in bucket)
• ⚠️ Furnace failure in mild weather
• ⚠️ Water heater not producing hot water
• ⚠️ Toilet running continuously (shut off valve at base)
• ⚠️ Single outlet or circuit not working
• ⚠️ Garage door not opening (use manual release)

Can Wait for a Scheduled Appointment

• ✅ Cosmetic drywall damage
• ✅ Drafty windows
• ✅ Minor ceiling stain (no active drip)
• ✅ Squeaky floors
• ✅ Sticking doors
• ✅ Deck boards showing wear

The cost difference is significant: emergency after-hours calls typically cost 1.5x–2x the regular rate. If you can safely wait until morning, you'll save money. But when safety is at risk, don't hesitate — call immediately.

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Insurance Tips for Home Emergencies

Document First, Clean Second

Before you start any cleanup:

• 1. Take photos and video of all damage from multiple angles
• 2. Photograph the source of the problem
• 3. Document the timeline: when did you discover it, what did you do, when did you call
• 4. Save all receipts: emergency supplies, hotel stays, contractor invoices
• 5. Keep damaged items: don't throw away damaged belongings until the adjuster has seen them (or you have photos)

What Home Insurance Typically Covers

Scenario

Typically Covered?

Notes

|----------|-------------------|-------|

Burst pipe (sudden)	✅ Yes	Minus deductible
Sewer backup	⚠️ Only with endorsement	Add this coverage if you don't have it
Overland flooding	⚠️ Only with endorsement	Newer coverage option in Ontario
Wind damage (broken window)	✅ Yes	Minus deductible
Fire damage	✅ Yes	Minus deductible
Furnace breakdown	❌ Generally no	Maintenance/mechanical failure
Gradual water damage	❌ No	Considered maintenance neglect
Frozen pipes (preventable)	⚠️ Maybe	Must show home was heated
Mold (from covered event)	⚠️ Limited	Usually capped amount

Key Insurance Tips

• Review your policy annually — make sure you have sewer backup and overland water endorsements
• Know your deductible — for emergencies under $2,000, it may not be worth claiming
• Report promptly — most policies require "prompt" notification
• Don't delay repairs — you're obligated to mitigate further damage (the insurance company expects reasonable action)
• Keep an inventory — photograph your belongings and keep receipts for major purchases

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Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Don't wait for an emergency. Prepare now:

Know Your Shutoffs

• ☐ Main water valve — located, tested, labeled
• ☐ Individual fixture shutoffs — under sinks, behind toilets
• ☐ Gas valve — located (at meter), know how to turn off
• ☐ Electrical panel — located, breakers labeled
• ☐ Sump pump — tested, backup power confirmed

Emergency Kit

Keep these accessible (not buried in the basement):

• ☐ Flashlight with fresh batteries (or rechargeable)
• ☐ Pipe repair clamp or tape
• ☐ Adjustable wrench (for shutoff valves)
• ☐ Duct tape and plastic sheeting
• ☐ Wet/dry vacuum
• ☐ Bucket and towels
• ☐ Fire extinguisher (Class ABC)
• ☐ Carbon monoxide detector (battery backup)
• ☐ Emergency phone numbers list (posted near phone)
• ☐ Insurance policy number and adjuster contact

Seasonal Maintenance to Prevent Emergencies

Fall (before winter):

• Service your furnace
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses
• Insulate exposed pipes in garage and attic
• Clean gutters
• Check sump pump
• Test smoke and CO detectors

Spring (before summer):

• Service your AC
• Test sump pump
• Inspect roof for winter damage
• Check window and door seals
• Clean dryer vent
• Inspect deck for winter damage

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is my main water shutoff valve?

In most Toronto homes, the main water shutoff is in the basement, near the front wall where the water service line enters from the street. It's typically close to the water meter. Look for a round gate valve or a lever-style ball valve. If you've never located it, do it today — and test it to make sure it turns.

How fast does water damage lead to mold?

Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours of water exposure on porous materials like drywall, carpet, and wood. This is why fast action on any water emergency is critical. If drywall has been wet for more than 48 hours, it should be removed and replaced rather than just dried.

Should I turn off my water when I go on vacation?

Yes. This is the single most effective way to prevent water damage while you're away. Turn off the main water shutoff, and consider opening a faucet to relieve pressure. Many insurance policies require this (or keeping the home heated) during winter absences — failure to do so can void your coverage.

How much does emergency plumbing cost in Toronto?

Emergency plumbing calls in the GTA typically cost 1.5–2x standard rates. A standard service call ($100–$300) becomes $200–$500 after hours. The repair cost depends on the issue — a burst pipe repair ranges from $350–$2,500 depending on location, accessibility, and extent of damage. Always ask for pricing before authorizing work.

What should I do if my smoke detector keeps beeping?

Continuous beeping usually means the battery is low — replace it. If the detector chirps after battery replacement, it may need to be replaced entirely (they expire after 7–10 years). If the alarm is sounding continuously (not chirping), treat it as a real alarm: evacuate and call 911.

Can I fix a burst pipe myself?

You can apply a temporary patch (pipe repair clamp, rubber + hose clamp, or plumber's epoxy) to contain the leak until a plumber arrives. However, permanent repair should always be done by a licensed plumber to ensure code compliance and prevent future failures. Temporary patches are exactly that — temporary.

When should I call 911 vs. a contractor?

Call 911 for: fire, gas leak, electrical fire, carbon monoxide alarm, any situation with risk of injury or death, structural collapse. Call a contractor for: contained water leaks, frozen pipes, furnace failure (no gas smell), broken windows, clogged drains, non-emergency repairs. When in doubt, call 911 — they can advise.

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RenoHouse Emergency Services

Home emergencies don't follow business hours. RenoHouse provides plumbing services, emergency repairs, and damage restoration across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Oakville, and the entire GTA.

When an emergency hits:

• 1. Secure your home using the steps in this guide
• 2. Document the damage with photos and video
• 3. Call RenoHouse at 289-212-2345
• 4. We'll dispatch help and walk you through next steps

Our team has handled every type of emergency described in this guide — hundreds of times over. We know GTA homes, we know the common failure points, and we know how to fix them properly the first time.

Save our number: 289-212-2345. When that pipe bursts at 2 AM, you'll be glad it's in your phone.

*This guide is for informational purposes. In any life-threatening emergency, always call 911 first. The information here is based on our experience with 498+ GTA projects and general best practices — your specific situation may differ. When in doubt, call a professional.*