Is a shower not working an emergency?

Usually, no. A non-working shower becomes an emergency when it creates immediate danger, uncontrolled water loss, serious property damage, sewage exposure, or loss of water or essential hot water throughout the home. An isolated shower fault with no hazard can wait for a routine plumbing appointment.

When a Broken Shower Is an Emergency

Treat it as an emergency if:

• Water will not turn off, or a burst pipe or heavy leak is flooding the property.
• Water is reaching lights, power points, wiring or electrical fittings. Stay clear, and do not touch wet electrical equipment or approach a switchboard through water. Call 000 if there is an immediate threat to life or fire risk.
• Sewage or contaminated water is backing up through the shower. Avoid contact and keep people and pets away.
• Water or essential hot water has failed throughout the property.
• Water is spreading through ceilings, walls or floors and causing rapid damage.

Poor flow at one shower, no water from the showerhead or a small contained drip is generally not an emergency. If it is the only usable shower, prompt attendance may be reasonable, especially for occupants with health or accessibility needs.

What to Do Immediately

Stop using the shower, stay away from hazards and limit damage only when it is safe.

1. For uncontrolled water, close the nearest accessible isolation valve or the property’s main water supply only if you know where it is and can reach it safely.
2. Do not dismantle taps, open walls, work on pressurised fittings or enter water where electricity may be present. Leave diagnosis and repairs to appropriately licensed plumbers or electricians.
3. Use towels or containers only for minor water that is safely accessible. Do not delay emergency help to contain major flooding.
4. Arrange urgent professional help for uncontrolled water, sewage backup or serious property damage. Electrical involvement may also require an emergency electrician.

NSW tenants should promptly notify their landlord or managing agent, preferably in writing, and use the property’s nominated urgent-repair contact. NSW urgent-repair categories include a burst water service, serious water-service leak, and failure of the water supply or an essential hot-water service.

If water cannot be controlled or immediate damage is occurring, contact our licensed Sydney plumbing team for urgent help.