Emergency Guide

Emergency Contractor Response Guide

What to do when you need a contractor fast — triage steps, emergency contacts, and how to avoid panic decisions that cost more in the long run.

Important: For life-threatening emergencies (gas leaks, structural collapse, active flooding, electrical fire), call 911 first. This guide covers non-life-threatening urgent repair situations.

Request Urgent HelpBrowse All Guides

Emergency Response: Step by Step

1 Assess the Severity

Before calling anyone, assess whether the situation is life-threatening or just urgent. Active flooding, gas smells, electrical sparks, or structural damage require 911 first.

Call 911 First

Active flooding, gas leak, electrical fire, structural collapse

Urgent — Act Fast

No heat in winter, broken AC in summer, major leak, roof damage

2 Stop Further Damage If Possible

Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage while waiting for help: turn off water at the main valve for leaks, turn off gas if you smell a leak (then call gas company), shut off electricity at the breaker if safe. Do not attempt repairs beyond basic mitigation.

3 Document Everything

Take photos and video of the damage before, during, and after mitigation. This documentation is critical for insurance claims and contractor estimates. Include wide shots and close-ups of specific damage areas.

4 Contact Your Insurance Company

If the damage may be covered by insurance, contact your provider before hiring a contractor. Document the claim number and ask what documentation they require. Many insurers have preferred contractors — verify whether using them affects your coverage.

5 Request Emergency Service

Submit an urgent service request through CRA and select the urgency option. For true emergencies, also call directly. Be clear about what happened, what damage exists, and when you need someone to arrive. Select "urgent" in the form and a contractor will be routed faster.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general educational information about handling urgent repair situations. CRA does not guarantee contractor availability or response times. For life-threatening emergencies, always contact 911 first. Verify contractor credentials independently before hiring.

Need Urgent Contractor Help?

Submit an urgent service request and CRA will route it to a contractor with available capacity.

Request Urgent Help