Emergency handyman in London: what to do before we arrive
Emergencies never wait for a convenient time. A burst pipe, a sparking socket, or a broken lock can turn your day upside down in minutes. That’s why having a trusted emergency handyman in London is so important.
At Dr HandyMan, we provide same-day call-outs across all London boroughs — but while you wait for us to arrive, there are a few steps you can take to keep your home safe and limit further damage.
Step 1: Stay calm and assess the situation
The first and most important thing: don’t panic. Emergencies are stressful, but a clear head helps you act quickly and safely.
- Take a deep breath and look around.
- Identify the immediate issue (water, electrics, security, or structure).
- Make sure everyone in the property is safe before dealing with the problem.
💡 Tip: If the emergency puts anyone in danger (such as fire or gas leaks), call the emergency services first — then contact your handyman once the area is safe.
Step 2: Turn off supplies if safe to do so
Most household emergencies are linked to water, electricity, or gas. Cutting the supply can stop damage getting worse.
Water leaks
- Find your stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink or near the front door).
- Turn it clockwise to shut off the mains water.
- Open a tap downstairs to drain remaining water.
Electricity
- Head to your fuse box or consumer unit.
- Switch off the relevant circuit or the main switch if you’re unsure.
- Never touch exposed wires or fittings.
Gas
- If you smell gas, turn off the mains supply at the meter.
- Open windows and doors.
- Do not use electrical switches or flames.
- Call the National Gas Emergency number: 0800 111 999.
Step 3: Contain the problem where possible
Once the danger is under control, you can take small steps to limit further damage until help arrives.
- Use buckets, bowls, or towels to catch water from leaks.
- Place furniture and electronics out of harm’s way.
- For broken locks or smashed windows, block the area with temporary coverings.
- Keep children and pets away from the affected room.
💡 Tip: Don’t attempt major repairs yourself — especially plumbing or electrics. Quick containment is fine; risky fixes are not.
Step 4: Document the issue
While waiting for your handyman, take photos or short videos of the damage.
- Helps us prepare the right tools and parts before arriving.
- Provides evidence for your landlord or insurance company.
- Creates a record if the problem escalates.
📱 Send images via WhatsApp when you book — it speeds things up.
Step 5: Call Dr HandyMan immediately
For urgent handyman services across London, call 07598 282186.
We’ll do our best to attend the same day, and we’ll always give you a clear estimate before work begins.
Our emergency services cover:
- Burst pipes and leaks
- Blocked sinks and toilets
- Faulty electrics and broken fittings
- Broken locks, doors, or windows
- Urgent repairs after damage
Why choose Dr HandyMan for emergencies?
- Fast response: Same-day appointments where possible.
- Wide coverage: All London boroughs and the City.
- Trusted experience: Over 19 years in the trade.
- Clear pricing: No hidden fees, free quotes.
- Friendly service: We explain everything in plain English.
💡 Unlike national call centres, we’re based in London and understand the city’s housing inside out.
How to prepare for emergencies in the future
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few ways to reduce the risk of emergencies:
- Learn where your stopcock, fuse box, and gas meter are.
- Keep a basic DIY kit at home (torch, pliers, duct tape, buckets).
- Book annual maintenance checks for plumbing and electrics.
- Keep important phone numbers handy — including your trusted handyman.
- Deal with small issues quickly before they escalate.
Conclusion
When an emergency strikes, it pays to stay calm, act fast, and know who to call.
The key steps are:
- Stay calm and assess the situation
- Turn off water, electricity, or gas if needed
- Contain the problem safely
- Document the damage
- Call Dr HandyMan for urgent help
At Dr HandyMan, we’re on hand to provide reliable emergency handyman services in London — from minor leaks to major repairs.
📞 Call 07598 282186 or [Book Online] for same-day service.
