Apex Emergency Repair Guide

Immediate Steps for Any Emergency

Safety First

1. Ensure everyone is safe and away from danger
2. If there's electrical danger, turn off power at the breaker
3. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call 911
4. For structural damage, leave the affected area

Damage Control

1. Shut off water at the main valve if leaking
2. Move belongings away from water/damage
3. Document damage with photos and video
4. Contact your insurance company if needed

Common Home Emergencies & Quick Responses

Burst Pipe or Major Water Leak

Immediate Action:

Locate and turn off your home's main water shutoff valve (usually near the water meter or where the main line enters). This stops water flow to the entire house.

What to Do:

Open faucets to release pressure and let remaining water drain. Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum for standing water.

When to Call:

Immediately for any burst pipe or water line. Don't wait — water damage worsens quickly and can compromise walls, floors, and foundations.

What to Tell the Contractor:

"I have a burst pipe at [location]. I've shut off the water. I need emergency repair."

Gas Smell or Suspected Gas Leak

⚠️ Evacuate Immediately

Leave doors and windows open if safe. Don't turn on lights or use any electronics. Don't use phones or appliances inside.

Call 911 First

Always call 911 for suspected gas leaks. They have specialized equipment to detect and locate leaks.

After Emergency Services Clear the Area:

A licensed plumber or gas company technician should inspect all gas appliances and lines before restoring service.

Prevention:

Have gas lines inspected annually. Know where your gas shutoff is located.

No Heat in Cold Weather

Check These First:

• Thermostat is set to "Heat" and a reasonable temperature
• Circuit breaker hasn't tripped
• HVAC system is turned on at the disconnect
• Air filter isn't completely clogged

If none of these resolve the issue, you have a real emergency during heating season.

When It's an Emergency:

Temperatures below freezing. Elderly or young family members. No alternative heat source available.

What to Tell the Contractor:

"My HVAC isn't heating. [Your system type] furnace. Temperature is [current temp]. I need emergency service."

Active Roof Leak During a Storm

Immediate Mitigation:

• Place buckets under drips
• Move valuables away from the affected area
• If water is spreading, poke a small hole in the ceiling to let it drain (prevents larger collapse)
• Cover exterior damage with tarps if safe to do so

During Active Storm:

Most contractors cannot safely work on roofs during active rain or high winds. Focus on damage mitigation inside your home.

After the Storm:

Call immediately for inspection and tarp coverage to prevent further interior damage.

Finding Emergency Help in Apex

When you need emergency repair help, submit your request and we'll connect you with qualified contractors who can respond quickly to your situation.

What to Include in Your Request

• Type of emergency (plumbing, HVAC, roofing, etc.)
• Specific problem description
• Whether you've taken mitigation steps
• Your address/neighborhood in Apex
• Best callback number
• Whether you need same-day response

What Happens Next

1. Request is received and routed to available contractors
2. Contractor contacts you to discuss the situation
3. Arrival time and initial plan are established
4. Emergency repair is performed
5. Follow-up for permanent repair is scheduled