A burst pipe or leaking geyser can't wait until Monday. Below are Benoni plumbers who list emergency or 24-hour call-outs, and what to do while you wait.
Before the plumber arrives
- Close the main stopcock. It's usually near the water meter at the front boundary of the property.
- If hot water is leaking, switch off the geyser at the distribution board.
- Open a cold tap to drain the pressure from the pipes.
- Move valuables and electrical items away from the water, and take photos for insurance.
What to ask on the phone
- What's the after-hours call-out fee, and does it include the first hour?
- How soon can someone be here?
- Are you registered with PIRB (the Plumbing Industry Registration Board)?
- If it's the geyser: do you handle insurance claims and issue a Certificate of Compliance?
Common emergencies in Benoni homes
- Burst geyser. See our guide: Burst geyser: what to do first.
- Burst or leaking pipes. Older galvanised pipes in established suburbs tend to fail at the joints.
- Blocked or overflowing drains, especially after heavy summer rain.
- No water. Check first whether it's a municipal outage before calling a plumber.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first when a pipe bursts?
Shut off the water at the stopcock or the meter, and switch off the geyser at the DB board if hot water is involved. See how to shut off your water.
Does insurance pay for a burst geyser?
Most household policies cover a burst geyser and resulting damage, subject to an excess and the policy terms. Phone your insurer before appointing a plumber, as many have approved plumbers. See burst geyser: what to do.
How much does an emergency plumber cost?
After-hours call-outs cost more than normal hours. Ask for the call-out fee and the hourly rate before the plumber comes out. See plumber prices in Benoni.
The leak is on the street side of the meter. Who fixes it?
Leaks on the municipal side of the meter are the City of Ekurhuleni's responsibility. Report them to the municipality.