Is this a plumbing emergency?
If any of these are happening right now, don't wait — call immediately.
- Water flooding — burst pipe, supply line failure, or water pouring where it shouldn't
- Sewage backup — wastewater coming up through drains, tubs, or toilets (health hazard)
- Gas smell near a water heater or appliance — leave the area first, then call
- No running water at all, or a water heater leaking heavily
- Frozen pipes threatening to burst — Sub-zero cold snaps freeze pipes in exterior walls, garages, and vacant properties within hours — shutoffs can't wait.
Plumbing emergency in Chicago? Talk to a local pro now.
Free for homeowners · 24/7 · Licensed local pros
What happens when you call
2
Get matched
We connect you with a licensed, insured Chicago plumber with upfront pricing — no obligation.
3
Pro dispatched
Your plumber heads your way. Many Chicago emergencies get same-day service, often within 1–2 hours.
Serving the Greater Chicago Area
Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, Elgin — and every neighborhood in between. Chicago winters are brutal on plumbing — frozen pipes that burst are the #1 emergency call in the city, especially in older bungalows and two-flats with uninsulated crawl spaces. Spring thaws then reveal the cracked pipes winter created, and century-old clay sewer tiles collapse under freeze-thaw cycles.
While you wait: shut the water off
- Find your main water shutoff valve — usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home — and turn it clockwise.
- Turn off your water heater if it's leaking to prevent further damage.
- Keep people and pets away from standing water, especially near outlets and appliances.
- Move valuables and rugs away from the affected area if it's safe to do so.
Chicago Emergency Plumbing FAQs
How fast can an emergency plumber reach me in Chicago?
For true emergencies in the Chicago area, our network pros typically offer same-day dispatch — many arrive within 1–2 hours. Call (844) 699-1165 now and we'll match you with the fastest available licensed plumber near you.
What counts as a plumbing emergency?
Burst or flooding pipes, sewage backing up into your home, a gas smell near water heaters or appliances, a water heater leaking heavily, or no running water at all. When in doubt, call — describing the situation takes 60 seconds and the advice is free.
How much does an emergency plumber cost in Chicago?
Emergency visits usually start with a diagnostic fee, then flat-rate upfront pricing before any work begins. After-hours rates can be higher than standard visits — your matched pro will quote you before starting, so there are no surprises.
Do you charge for the call itself?
No — calling (844) 699-1165 and getting matched with a Chicago plumber is 100% free for homeowners. You only pay the local plumber for the work they do, at the price they quote upfront.
What should I do while waiting for the plumber?
If water is flowing where it shouldn't: find your main water shutoff valve (usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home) and turn it clockwise to stop the flow. Keep people and pets away from standing water, especially near electrical outlets.
Are your Chicago plumbers licensed?
Yes — every plumber in our Illinois network is verified as licensed and insured. We only connect homeowners with legitimate local professionals.
Chicago Plumbing Guides
Know exactly what's wrong? Jump to the local guide.