Can I Call a Plumber for My Apartment? Here’s What You Need to Know

You’re washing dishes when suddenly—gurgle, drip, flood. Water’s pooling under the sink, and panic sets in. Your first thought: “Can I call a plumber for my apartment?” You’re not alone. Millions of renters face this exact dilemma every year. The good news? Yes, you often can—but it depends on your lease, local laws, and the urgency of the issue. This guide breaks down exactly when you’re allowed (or even encouraged) to call a plumber, who pays, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

When Are You Allowed to Call a Plumber for Your Apartment?

The short answer: It depends on whether the plumbing issue is an emergency, caused by you, or part of normal wear and tear.

Most U.S. states follow the “implied warranty of habitability”—a legal principle that requires landlords to maintain safe, livable conditions, including functioning plumbing (Wikipedia ). But tenants also have responsibilities.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

💡 Pro Tip: Always check your lease agreement first. Some leases require written notice before any repair—even in emergencies.

Is It an Emergency? Know the Difference

Not all plumbing issues are created equal. Calling a plumber unnecessarily could cost you—or violate your lease.

✅ True Plumbing Emergencies (Call Immediately):

• Sewage backup – Health hazard; can spread bacteria.
• Major water leak – Risk of mold, structural damage, or electrical hazards.
• No running water – Violates habitability standards in most states.
• Gas smell near water heater – Could indicate gas line issue (evacuate and call 911 + plumber).

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, 68% of water damage in rentals stems from delayed response to leaks. Acting fast protects both you and the property.

❌ Non-Emergencies (Notify Landlord First):

• Dripping faucet
• Slow-draining sink
• Low water pressure (unless sudden)

In non-emergencies, always notify your landlord in writing (email or maintenance portal counts). Give them a reasonable time to respond—usually 24–72 hours, depending on state law.

Step-by-Step: How to Handle a Plumbing Issue in Your Apartment

Follow these steps to protect your rights and security deposit:

1. Assess the Situation
   Is it dangerous? Smelly? Flooding? If yes → proceed to step 2. If no → document and report.
2. Shut Off Water (If Safe)
   Locate your unit’s shutoff valve (usually under the sink or near the water heater). Turn clockwise to stop flow.
   ⚠️ Never shut off main building water unless instructed—you could affect other tenants.
3. Contact Your Landlord Immediately
   Use phone + follow-up email:“Hi [Name], there’s a major leak under the kitchen sink causing water damage. Per our lease Section X, I’m notifying you of an urgent repair need. Please advise next steps.”
4. If No Response Within 24 Hours (Emergency Only)
   In most states (like CA, NY, TX), you may legally hire a licensed plumber if:
   • It’s a true emergency
   • You’ve made multiple attempts to contact the landlord
   • You keep all receipts
5. Submit Receipts & Request Reimbursement
   Keep copies of invoices, photos of damage, and communication logs. Many states allow you to deduct repair costs from rent—if done correctly.

📌 Warning: Never withhold rent without legal guidance. Improper deductions can lead to eviction.

Landlord vs. Tenant: Who’s Responsible for What?

Understanding responsibility prevents disputes. Here’s a general rule:

• Landlord covers:
  • Main sewer lines
  • Water heaters (unless misused)
  • Pipe corrosion or age-related failures
  • Fixture malfunctions (e.g., broken toilet flush valve)
• Tenant covers:
  • Clogs from grease, hair, or foreign objects
  • Damage from DIY “fixes”
  • Broken fixtures due to misuse (e.g., hanging on towel rack until it rips out)

A 2023 study by the National Apartment Association found that 42% of plumbing service calls in rentals were tenant-caused—mostly from improper disposal of cooking oil, wipes, or toys down drains.

What If Your Landlord Refuses to Fix It?

If your landlord ignores repeated requests for non-emergency repairs, you have options—but proceed carefully:

• Send a formal repair request letter (certified mail)
• Contact local housing authority (most cities have a code enforcement office)
• Withhold rent? Only in states that allow it—and usually requires court approval.
• Repair-and-deduct? Legal in CA, IL, NY, and others—but capped at 1–2 months’ rent.

⚖️ Legal Insight: In Javins v. First National Realty (1970), courts ruled landlords must provide habitable housing—setting precedent nationwide.

Never take matters into your own hands without understanding your state’s tenant laws. Visit Nolo’s State Renters’ Rights Guide for free, updated info.

FAQ: Common Questions About Calling a Plumber for Your Apartment

Q1: Can I call a plumber without telling my landlord?

Only in true emergencies (e.g., flooding, sewage backup). Otherwise, you risk violating your lease and being charged for the full cost.

Q2: Will I get in trouble if I call a plumber myself?

If it’s non-urgent and you didn’t notify your landlord first, yes—you might be billed. Always document everything.

Q3: How fast must a landlord fix a plumbing problem?

• Emergency: Within 24 hours (CA, NY, FL, etc.)
• Non-emergency: 3–14 days, depending on state law
  Check your local statutes—some cities (like Chicago) require fixes within 48 hours for no-hot-water issues.

Q4: Can my landlord enter my apartment to fix plumbing?

Yes—but they must give 24–48 hours’ notice (except in emergencies). They cannot enter without warning just because there’s a leak.

Q5: What if the plumber causes more damage?

Licensed plumbers carry liability insurance. If damage occurs, the landlord typically files a claim—not you. Keep records in case of disputes.

Q6: Should I use my landlord’s preferred plumber?

Often, yes—it ensures warranty coverage and avoids billing conflicts. But in emergencies, any licensed plumber is acceptable.

Conclusion

So, can you call a plumber for your apartment? Yes—especially in emergencies—but always act responsibly, document everything, and know your rights. Understanding the line between tenant and landlord duties saves you money, stress, and potential legal trouble.

Plumbing problems won’t fix themselves. By following the steps above, you protect your home, your wallet, and your rental record.

👉 Found this helpful? Share it with a fellow renter on Facebook or Pinterest! A quick share could save someone from a flooded floor—or an unfair repair bill.

Stay dry, stay informed, and never ignore that drip! 💧