If a pipe bursts or a drain overflows in a Springfield home, close the main water valve first; with a gas smell, leave and call 911 and Washington Gas from outside. Then call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Springfield.
How the call works
You'll be put through to an independent plumber who takes urgent work in Springfield, North Springfield, West Springfield and Newington Forest. Describe what failed, say whether the main is off and whether water is still moving, and give the address with a nearby road such as Old Keene Mill Road, Backlick Road or the Franconia-Springfield Parkway. Ask how after-hours pricing works. Arrival time depends on the hour, so it isn't promised.
What changes the price
- The clock. Late nights, weekends and holidays usually cost more than a weekday visit.
- Older materials. Fittings and valves that have been in place for decades can take extra time to cut out and replace.
- Repair versus replacement. A patched line costs less than a new water heater or a lateral section.
- Permits. Fairfax County Land Development Services requires permits for new, repaired or relocated plumbing and gas fixtures; ask the plumber whether yours needs one.
Local conditions
Springfield grew from about 1,000 residents in 1950 to more than 25,000 by 1970, and the median home dates from 1974. That post-war and 1960s building boom left many houses with original supply piping, older shutoff valves and drain lines that have seen half a century of use. Those are the parts that tend to fail first, and an old gate valve that won't close fully can turn a small leak into a bigger one.
Fairfax Water supplies the water, and its after-hours emergency number is 703-698-5613. Report main breaks, hydrant leaks and meter problems there. Fairfax County's Wastewater Management program runs the public sewer, with a 24-hour line at 703-323-1211. The property owner maintains the private lateral from the house to the county sewer, including the connection itself, so a clog or break on that stretch is a plumber's job.
Washington Gas serves Springfield. If you smell gas, walk out without switching anything on or off, then call 911 and 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427), option 1, from outside.
Checklist while you wait
- Main valve closed, with a low faucet open
- Water heater gas or breaker off if it's leaking
- No water running anywhere if drains are backing up
- Power off to wet outlets and appliances
- Photos of the damage taken for insurance
Emergency Plumber questions in Springfield
Sewage is coming up through a basement floor drain. Who do I call first?
Water is gushing from the street or the meter box. Who handles that?
How do I find the main water shutoff and close it fast?
Which plumbing problems can safely wait for a weekday?
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