What to know before arranging a visit
Describe the situation
Start with where the water is appearing, whether it is still flowing and which fixtures are affected. A burst supply pipe and an overflowing drain can need different work. These details help the provider understand the request; they do not replace an assessment.
A repair is not the same as cleanup
The plumbing job may stop the leak or clear the blockage. Water removal, drying and restoration of damaged walls or flooring can be separate work. Ask what the provider’s visit and quote include before agreeing.
Ask about timing and charges
Tell the call service that the request is urgent. Confirm whether a provider is available now, the expected arrival window and any visit or after-hours charge. An urgent request is not a confirmed appointment, and this website does not promise a fixed response time.
Austin-area emergency contacts
Austin Water’s 24-hour operations line (512-972-1000) handles city-side water and sewer emergencies; burst private pipes or overflowing fixtures need an independent plumber. Texas plumbers are licensed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). Ask for the provider’s license number and confirm it at tsbpe.texas.gov before authorizing work. Source: Austin Water official contact listings; TSBPE consumer information, tsbpe.texas.gov.
Burst pipes after a freeze
A burst supply pipe is a common emergency after a hard freeze. Our Austin freeze statistics show how many nights each winter fall to 32°F, 28°F and 20°F at Camp Mabry, when the first freeze usually arrives, and how to find and use your shutoff valve.
Ask for the complete quote.
Confirm the visit charge, proposed work, parts and exclusions before authorizing service.
Use the plumbing quote checklist ↗Your questions, answered
What is the Austin Water emergency number?
Dial 512-972-1000 for city-side water and sewer emergencies, available 24 hours. A burst private pipe or overflowing fixture is private-side work and needs an independent plumber, not Austin Water.
How do I check a plumber’s license in Texas?
Use the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners’ license search at tsbpe.texas.gov. Ask for the provider’s name and license number before authorizing any work.
What if there is immediate danger?
Leave the area and contact emergency services from a safe location. This referral line is not an emergency response service. For Austin gas service issues, contact Atmos Energy directly.