Emergency Contacts Every Homeowner Should Have Ready
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Start with the Basics
Your first emergency contact is your local water utility. They can help you shut off water at the street if your home valve fails. Keep their number on your fridge and in your phone.
Next, your insurance company. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Have your policy number and a claims phone number ready. If you live in a hot, dry climate, keep your shutoff valve location written down, as water damage can still occur from burst pipes or appliance leaks.
- Local water utility
- Insurance company claims line
- Plumber for pipe leaks
- Electrician for water near outlets
Add Water Damage Pros
For sudden water loss, you may need emergency water extraction services. The pros remove standing water and set up drying equipment. Keep their contact handy for floods or burst pipes.
Also consider a water damage inspection service. They can find hidden moisture and help you understand the extent of damage. This is useful after any significant leak or storm event.
- Emergency water extraction
- Water damage inspection
- Structural drying and dehumidification
- Leak detection services
Include Trades for Repairs
A plumber handles pipe leaks and plumbing repairs. An electrician is essential if water has reached outlets, switches, or your electrical panel. Never enter a flooded area with live electricity.
A roofer can address storm damage like missing shingles or hail breaches. In a hot, dry climate with occasional heavy rain, roof issues can lead to water intrusion fast. Check your roof after storms and have a roofer's number ready for quick action.
- Plumber
- Electrician
- Roofer
- Water damage restoration for crawl space flooding
Prepare for Health and Safety
Keep poison control in your contacts. If you suspect contaminated water or chemical exposure, call them for guidance. Also have your doctor's number for any illness after water damage. For mold concerns, you might need a mold professional who can assess air quality and recommend safe cleanup. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure to damp or moldy areas.
For mold concerns, you might need a mold professional who can assess air quality and recommend safe cleanup. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure to damp or moldy areas.
- Poison control
- Your doctor
- Mold professional
- Local emergency management office
Update and Store Your List
Write your emergency contacts on a card and place it near your main water shutoff valve. Also save them in your phone under a group like 'Home Emergencies'. This makes them accessible when you are stressed. Consider adding a note about your home's layout, such as where the shutoff valve is and which rooms are most at risk for leaks.
Review your list every six months. Phone numbers change, and your insurance policy may be renewed. Keep a second copy in your car or with a trusted neighbor. Being prepared saves time when water is spreading. Also, include a note about your home's construction, like whether you have a crawl space or slab foundation, to help you explain the situation to the pros when you call.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Mesquite and nearby communities.
Call Now (214) 983-0952Frequently asked questions
What if I don't know my insurance claims number?
Call your insurance company directly and ask for the claims department. Keep that number with your policy documents. If you cannot find it, check your policy paperwork or online account. It is important to have it ready before an emergency.
Should I call a plumber or water damage pro first?
If a pipe is actively leaking, call a plumber to stop the source. Once the leak is controlled, water damage pros can extract water and dry the area. For a flood or storm, start with water extraction to reduce damage.
How do I find a roofer for storm damage?
Ask neighbors or your insurance company for referrals. You can also search online for local roofing services. Make sure the roofer can assess and temporarily tarp your roof if needed to prevent more water entry.
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