Can You Have a Plumber in Your House During Lockdown?

A burst pipe, a backed-up toilet, or a flooding basement doesn’t care whether the world is in lockdown. If you’ve ever asked, “Can you have a plumber in your house during lockdown?”, you’re not alone. Many homeowners faced this exact dilemma during pandemic restrictions—and the good news is that essential home services like plumbing were often still permitted, provided strict safety guidelines were followed. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get help safely and legally—without risking fines or health.

Is Plumbing Considered an Essential Service During Lockdown?

Yes, in most U.S. states and under federal guidance, plumbing is classified as an essential service—especially when it involves health, safety, or sanitation. According to the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), workers supporting the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater systems—including plumbers—are considered essential critical infrastructure workers.

That means if you’re dealing with:

• A major leak threatening structural damage
• A sewage backup posing health risks
• No running water or non-functional toilets

…you are typically allowed to call a licensed plumber, even during strict stay-at-home orders.

💡 Real-World Example: During California’s 2020 lockdown, the Department of Consumer Affairs explicitly listed plumbers among “essential businesses” permitted to operate—as long as they followed social distancing and sanitation protocols.

What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency During Lockdown?

Not every plumbing issue warrants an in-home visit during lockdown. To avoid unnecessary exposure and conserve limited service availability, focus on true emergencies:

✅ Emergency Situations:

• Burst or leaking pipes causing water damage
• Sewage overflow or foul odors (health hazard)
• Complete loss of running water
• Gas leaks (call gas company and plumber immediately)
• Frozen pipes at risk of bursting

❌ Non-Emergency Repairs (Wait Until Restrictions Ease):

• Dripping faucet
• Slow-draining sink
• Installing new fixtures
• Routine maintenance

If you’re unsure, most plumbing companies offer free phone or video consultations to assess urgency—take advantage of these before inviting someone into your home.

How to Safely Host a Plumber During Lockdown

Even if plumbing is “allowed,” safety is paramount. Follow these CDC-aligned steps to protect yourself, your family, and the technician:

Step-by-Step Safety Protocol

1. Confirm the plumber follows local health guidelines
   Ask if they wear masks, sanitize tools, and maintain social distancing.
2. Limit household members in the work area
   Only one adult should interact with the plumber; keep kids and vulnerable individuals in another room.
3. Open windows for ventilation
   Increase airflow in the repair zone to reduce airborne particle concentration.
4. Disinfect surfaces before and after
   Wipe down door handles, light switches, and countertops the plumber may touch.
5. Use contactless payment
   Avoid cash or check—opt for digital payments like Venmo, Zelle, or credit card via phone.
6. Ask the plumber to wear shoe covers
   Many now include this as standard practice to prevent tracking contaminants.

📊 Stat Insight: A 2021 survey by the National Association of Home Builders found that 87% of plumbing companies adopted enhanced safety protocols during lockdowns—making in-home visits far safer than many homeowners assumed.

Local Variations: Lockdown Rules by State

While federal guidance supports essential plumbing, local regulations vary. Here’s a quick comparison:

🔍 Pro Tip: Always check your city or county public health department website before scheduling service. For a reliable overview of essential service definitions, see the CISA Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers list (linked to authoritative source).

What If You Can’t Get a Plumber? DIY Alternatives (With Caution)

For minor issues, you may delay professional help—but never attempt repairs beyond your skill level. Incorrect fixes can worsen damage and void insurance claims.

Safe DIY Options During Lockdown:

• Clogged drain: Use a plunger or drain snake (avoid chemical cleaners—they can damage pipes).
• Leaky faucet: Tighten the aerator or replace the washer (kits cost under $10).
• Frozen pipe: Thaw gently with a hair dryer—never use open flame.

⚠️ When NOT to DIY:

• Any issue involving gas lines
• Sewer line blockages
• Electrical water heaters
• Structural leaks

🛠️ Case Study: In Ohio, a homeowner trying to fix a sewer backup with a rented machine caused $12,000 in water damage. A licensed plumber would’ve cleared it in 45 minutes for under $300.

Pros vs. Cons: Calling a Plumber During Lockdown

Most experts agree: if it’s a genuine emergency, the benefits far outweigh the risks—especially with today’s safety standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can a plumber enter my home if I’m in quarantine due to COVID-19 exposure?

A: Only if absolutely necessary. If you’re infected or exposed, reschedule non-urgent repairs. For true emergencies (e.g., flooding), inform the plumber beforehand so they can take extra precautions—like wearing N95 masks and full PPE.

Q2: Do plumbers need special permits to work during lockdown?

A: No federal permit is required, but some cities may ask for proof of “essential service” status. Reputable companies carry documentation—feel free to ask.

Q3: Are plumbing services more expensive during lockdown?

A: Some companies added “pandemic surcharges” (typically 10–20%), but many absorbed costs to support communities. Always request a quote upfront.

Q4: Can I be fined for having a plumber over during lockdown?

A: Only if your local order explicitly bans non-essential home services and your issue isn’t an emergency. Document the nature of the problem (photos, videos) in case authorities question your decision.

Q5: What safety gear should my plumber wear?

A: At minimum: face mask, gloves, and eye protection. Many now use disposable shoe covers and carry hand sanitizer. Ask before they enter!

Q6: Is it safer to wait until lockdown ends?

A: Only for minor issues. Delaying emergency repairs can lead to mold, structural damage, or unsanitary conditions—posing greater long-term health risks than a brief, protected visit.

Conclusion

So—can you have a plumber in your house during lockdown? Yes, absolutely, when it’s a legitimate emergency and proper safety measures are in place. Plumbing isn’t just about convenience; it’s critical to your home’s health and safety. By understanding what qualifies as urgent, verifying your local rules, and following simple safety steps, you can get the help you need without compromising your well-being.

If this guide helped you navigate a stressful situation, please share it on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest—it might save a friend from a flooded basement or sewage nightmare! 💧🔧

Stay safe, stay dry, and never ignore a plumbing emergency—even during a pandemic.