What counts as a water damage emergency
Any water that is still running, spreading across floors, coming through a ceiling or coming up from a drain is an emergency. So is water you cannot stop because the shut-off will not turn, and water that has reached outlets, the panel or appliances.
Some situations look smaller but still need help the same day: a wet ceiling that is starting to bulge, sewage in a tub or floor drain, a water heater leaking from the tank itself, or carpet that has been wet overnight. Water keeps moving into drywall, baseboards and the pad under carpet for hours after the source stops.
Pick your emergency
Each page explains the first steps for that problem in a Richardson home.
- Burst pipe
A supply line has split and water is spraying or pouring. See burst pipe emergency. - Standing water
Water across floors or carpet that needs pulling out now. See emergency water extraction. - Flooded house after a storm
Runoff or rising water came in through doors or walls. See flooded house emergency. - Sewage coming up
Waste water in a tub, shower or floor drain. See sewage backup emergency. - Ceiling leak
Water dripping or a bulge in the ceiling. See ceiling leak emergency. - Water heater failure
The tank is leaking or has let go. See water heater leak emergency.
Who to call for what, at any hour
| Situation | Who to call |
|---|---|
| Anyone hurt, gas smell, or sparking electrics | 911, then leave the house |
| Water running in the street, alley or meter box | City of Richardson 24/7 line, 972-744-4111 |
| Sewer backing up and it may be the city main | City of Richardson 24/7 line, 972-744-4111 |
| Pipe needs repairing so water can go back on | A licensed Texas plumber |
| Water in the house needs removing and drying | A restoration contractor (the call on this page) |
What happens on the call
You speak directly with an independent restoration contractor who serves your part of Richardson. Expect questions about where the water came from, which rooms are wet, how long it has been wet and whether the source is stopped. Those answers decide what equipment is needed and how urgent the visit is.
Ask them about their availability, their IICRC training, whether they will take moisture readings and photos for your insurer, and whether they bill your insurance company directly. There is no obligation to hire anyone because you called.
While you wait
Take photos and short videos of every wet area before anything is moved. Lift curtains off the floor, move small furniture and rugs off wet carpet, and put foil or plastic under the legs of heavy furniture. Do not use a household vacuum on water, and do not turn on ceiling fans or lights under a wet ceiling.
If you have homeowners insurance, call the claims line and note the claim number. Keep damaged items until the adjuster has seen them or told you that photos are enough.
Emergency questions
Answered 24/7 · No obligation
Water coming in right now?
Close the main, then call. A contractor serving 75080, 75081 and 75082 answers 24/7.
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