I have a plumbing emergency
Stop the water first, then make the calls. Here's how, who to call in Clark County, and what your landlord has to fix if you rent.
What to do first
1. Shut off the water. For one fixture, turn the small valve under the sink or
behind the toilet. For the whole home, turn the main shutoff valve, usually where the water line
enters the house or in a box near the curb. Find yours before you need it.
2. If water is near outlets, wiring or the electrical panel, stay out of the water
and turn off power at the breaker only if you can reach it dry. If anyone is in danger, call 911.
3. No water at all, or water bubbling up in the street? It may be the water
district's line, not yours. Call the
Las Vegas
Valley Water District at 702-870-4194.
4. If you own the home, hire a licensed plumber. Look up the license on the
Nevada State Contractors Board
site and confirm it says Active. Get the price in writing before work starts.
5. Take photos of the damage before cleanup, for your landlord or your
insurance claim.
If you rent: what the law says
| Rule | What it means for you | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing in working order | The landlord must keep plumbing in good working order, and supply hot and cold running water connected to an approved sewer system | NRS 118A.290(1)(b)–(c) |
| Repair it and deduct it | If the landlord doesn't fix it within 14 days of your written notice, or sooner in an emergency, you can have it repaired in a workmanlike manner and take the cost out of rent, up to $100 or one month's rent, whichever is greater | NRS 118A.360 |
| Bigger breaches | For a breach the landlord won't fix, written notice gives them 14 days; after that you may end the lease, recover damages, or ask a court for relief | NRS 118A.350 |
Tell your landlord in writing right away and keep a copy. Free legal help: the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada, or call 211.