Emergency Home Repairs: When to Call a Professional Tradesperson
Not every home emergency is a true emergency — but some absolutely are. Here is a guide to knowing when to call a professional and who to call.
Home emergencies are stressful — and knowing what to do in those first critical minutes can prevent minor problems from becoming major disasters. This guide covers the most common home emergencies in Ireland and tells you exactly who to call. Gas Leaks — Call Immediately A gas leak is the most dangerous home emergency. If you smell gas (rotten egg smell): Do not use any electrical switches — do not turn on or off any lights or appliances Open all windows and doors Leave the property and move away from the building Call Gas Networks Ireland: 1800 20 50 50 (free, 24/7) Do not re-enter until a Gas Networks engineer has cleared the property Burst Pipes and Flooding If a pipe bursts: Turn off the mains water stopcock — this is usually under the kitchen sink or near the water meter Turn off your immersion or boiler to prevent dry firing Open cold taps to drain down the system Protect floors and belongings from water damage Call an emergency plumber Know where your stopcock is before an emergency happens. If you cannot find it, check under the kitchen sink, in an understairs cupboard, or near your water meter outside. Electrical Faults Signs of a serious electrical problem: Burning smell from sockets or appliances Repeated tripping of the fuse board Sparking or visible scorch marks Power out in part of the house without obvious cause Electrical shock from a socket or appliance Turn off the mains supply at the fuse board and call a RECI-registered electrician. Do not attempt any repairs yourself. Roof Damage Storm damage to roofs is common in Ireland. If tiles have blown off or your roof is leaking: Place buckets to catch dripping water and protect your belongings Do not attempt to climb onto the roof yourself — it is dangerous Call a roofer for emergency temporary repairs (pla
Published: 20/4/2026