Where is my main water shut-off?

Often where the water line enters the home or at the street meter; locate it before an emergency.

Should I cut the power?

Yes, if water is near electrical components — at the breaker, safely.

Do you handle leak emergencies?

Yes — heating and hot-water leaks across Greater Vancouver.

GeneralEmergency2025-12-30

Water Leak Emergency: The First 5 Steps

Fast, calm action limits water damage from any HVAC or plumbing leak.

When water is leaking, minutes matter. These five steps limit damage from a heating-system or plumbing leak.

Stop the water and power

Shut off the nearest valve (or the main water shut-off), and turn off power to any affected appliance or area at the breaker if water is near electrical components.

Contain and document

Contain the water with towels, pans and buckets, move valuables, document the damage with photos for insurance, and call for emergency repair.

Key takeaways

Know your main water shut-off location
Cut power near water at the breaker
Contain and photograph the damage
Call for emergency repair: 778-909-5731

Need help with your general?

Licensed, gas-certified technicians serving Greater Vancouver since 1999. CombiBoiler.ca — A division of ROMA Heating Ltd..

Call 778-909-5731 Free Quote

Frequently asked questions

More General articles

How to Find Your Water Shut-Off ValveKnowing where your main and appliance shut-offs are can save thousands in water damage.No Heat in Winter: An Emergency GuideWhatever your heating system, here's how to respond safely when the heat goes out in winter.How to Detect a Hidden Water LeakUnexplained bills, damp spots and a moving meter can reveal a hidden leak before major damage.When to Call Emergency HVAC ServiceSome issues can wait for a scheduled visit; others need immediate response — here's how to tell.Preventing Water Damage from HVAC LeaksDrain pans, leak sensors and maintenance prevent costly water damage from boilers, furnaces and water heaters.Gas Smell: What to Do Right NowA gas smell is a safety emergency — here are the exact steps to take immediately.

More from our knowledge base

Furnace Won't Turn On? Causes and FixesFurnace Furnace Blowing Cold Air: What to CheckFurnace Why Your Furnace Short-Cycles (and How to Stop It)Furnace No Heat? Emergency Furnace Repair GuideFurnace Furnace Making Strange Noises: A Sound-by-Sound GuideFurnace Annual Furnace Maintenance ChecklistFurnace All ArticlesBrowse the full library