Overflowing Toilets & Clogged Drains

A single clogged toilet or sink is usually a nuisance, not an emergency. It becomes urgent when a toilet won't stop running over, when it's the only toilet in the house, or when several drains back up at once, which points to a main-line problem.

Call: 1 (800) 555-0199

Warning signs

A toilet that keeps filling or overflows when flushed
Water backing up into a tub when the toilet is flushed
Several fixtures draining slowly at the same time

What to do right now

Turn the shutoff valve behind the toilet clockwise to stop the water
Lift the tank lid and push the flapper down to stop the fill
Try a flange plunger—never mix chemical drain cleaners
Stop running water elsewhere if multiple drains are affected

What the plumber will do

A plumber will clear the clog with an auger or drain machine and check whether the problem is in the fixture, the branch line or the main sewer.

What affects the cost

A single fixture clog is typically the least expensive emergency call. Main-line clogs, camera inspections and after-hours rates add to the cost. Pricing is set by the independent provider—ask for the trip charge and an estimate before work begins.

Safety first

Smell gas? Leave the building now and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Don't flip switches.
Water near outlets or the electrical panel? Stay out of the water and shut off power only if you can do it safely.
Know your main water shutoff before you need it—it stops most plumbing emergencies in seconds.

Need an emergency plumber?

Call free, 24 hours a day. We'll connect you with an available local provider.