When something breaks in your house, it’s tempting to put it off—especially if it seems small or doesn’t cause immediate problems. But not all home repairs can wait. Some issues may seem minor at first, but can lead to serious damage and expensive fixes if you ignore them. Knowing which repairs need fast attention can save you money and stress and even protect your safety. Here’s a rundown of emergency home repairs that should never be put on the back burner.
Common Emergency Home Repairs: Water Leaks
Any water leak is a red flag. That includes leaking pipes, dripping ceilings, or puddles forming near your water heater. Water has a sneaky way of causing trouble in your house. It leads to mold, rot, and damage to drywall, floors, and your home’s structure. Even a slow drip can rack up a high water bill and cause long-term damage.
If you notice a leak, turn off the water supply to that area or the entire house if needed, and call a plumber right away. Waiting even a day or two can mean the difference between a quick repair and thousands of dollars in damage.
Electrical Issues
If your lights flicker, breakers trip often, or you smell something burning near an outlet, stop using the system and get an electrician out as soon as possible. Electrical problems can lead to fires, and those risks just aren’t worth ignoring.
Older homes especially can have outdated wiring that doesn’t meet current safety codes. Even if it’s just one outlet that’s acting up, it could be a symptom of a bigger issue. Never try to DIY electrical repairs unless you’re licensed and trained. This is one area where a professional is always the right call.
Roof Damage
A damaged roof can lead to water leaks, insulation problems, and pest infestations. If you notice missing shingles, visible sagging, or water stains on your ceiling after a storm, don’t wait. Even small breaches can let water into your attic and walls, causing long-term issues that are expensive to fix.
Tarps on the roof won’t last forever. Have a roofer assess the damage immediately, especially if more rain is coming. Making repairs now can buy you time before you have to replace the entire roof.
Dangerous Emergency Home Repairs: Sewer Backups
A sewer backup is messy, unhealthy, and unpleasant—but it’s also a sign that your plumbing system is in trouble. If drains are slow throughout the house, toilets won’t flush properly, or water backs up into sinks or tubs, call a plumber immediately.
A backup can lead to raw sewage entering your home, which can pose serious health risks and require expensive cleanup. In some cases, it’s caused by tree roots, broken pipes, or a clogged main line—all of which require urgent repair.
Gas Leaks
If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound near a gas line or appliance, get out of the house immediately and call your gas company or 911. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous. Even a small leak can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or a fire.
This is one emergency that absolutely cannot wait. Don’t turn lights on or off or use any electronics until you’re safely outside. Once the utility company shuts things down and makes the area safe, bring in a licensed technician to inspect and repair the line.
Foundation Cracks
Not all cracks in your foundation are serious, but some are. If you see large cracks—especially ones that are growing—don’t ignore them. Gaps wider than a quarter inch, diagonal cracks, or cracks that are paired with sticking doors and windows may point to a shifting foundation.
Foundation issues don’t fix themselves. Waiting can make them worse and drive up the cost to repair. Catching the problem early means more affordable options and fewer surprises.
Furnace or AC Failure in Extreme Weather
Your heating and cooling systems do more than keep you comfortable—they help protect your home and your health. In freezing weather, a broken furnace can lead to frozen pipes. In extreme heat, no AC can be dangerous for children, older adults, or pets.
If your system suddenly stops working during a stretch of harsh weather, don’t wait to call for service. Emergency HVAC repairs are often available 24/7 for this reason. Quick action can prevent further damage and discomfort.
FAQs on Emergency Home Repairs
How do I know if a leak is serious?
If water is dripping steadily, causing stains, or forming puddles, it’s serious. Any leak that’s not fixed quickly can cause mold and structural damage.
Can I wait a few days to fix a roof leak?
It’s best not to. Even a small roof leak can let water into your attic or walls. If rain is in the forecast, the damage can get worse fast.
How do I handle a sewer backup?
Stop using water in the house and call a plumber right away. Avoid contact with any standing water, as it could be contaminated.
Is a cracked foundation an emergency?
It depends. Hairline cracks are common, but wide or growing cracks should be looked at quickly to avoid structural problems.
360 Home Inspections offers home inspections in Northern New Jersey. Contact us to schedule our services.