Usually fine to try yourself
- A single slow sink or tub drain: clean the stopper and use a plunger or a plastic drain snake.
- A running toilet: replace the flapper or adjust the fill valve.
- A dripping faucet: replace the cartridge or washer if you're comfortable.
- A clogged toilet: use a flange plunger before anything stronger.
Call a plumber
- More than one drain is slow or backing up at once. That points to the main line.
- Sewage smell or water coming up in a tub or shower.
- No hot water, or water leaking from the water heater.
- A leak inside a wall, ceiling or floor.
- Low pressure throughout the whole house.
- Frozen or burst pipes.
- Any work on gas lines.
What to do while you wait
Shut off the water at the fixture valve, or at the main shut-off if you can't isolate it. Turn off power to an electric water heater or set a gas one to pilot if it's leaking. Move valuables away from the water and take photos for insurance.
Avoid chemical drain cleaners before a plumber visit. They can damage pipes and are dangerous for the plumber to work around.