Top 10 Emergency Repairs Every London Homeowner Should Know About
Why Every Homeowner Needs to Prepare for Property Emergencies
No matter how well you maintain your home, unexpected emergencies can happen at any time. From leaking roofs to faulty electrics, London homeowners face a variety of urgent repair issues that demand quick and professional attention.
When handled promptly, most emergencies can be resolved before they cause major damage or safety risks. At QBS Property Maintenance, our team of qualified engineers and tradespeople provide 24/7 emergency response services across North, South, East, and West London.
This guide highlights the ten most common emergency repairs every homeowner should be aware of and how to deal with them effectively.
1. Burst or Leaking Pipes
A burst pipe can flood your property within minutes, causing severe water damage to walls, floors, and electrics.
What to do immediately:
- Turn off the main water supply at the stopcock.
- Switch off electrics in affected areas.
- Contact an emergency plumber right away.
QBS provides rapid-response plumbing services throughout London to stop leaks, repair pipes, and restore your system safely.
2. Boiler Breakdowns and Heating Failures
Boiler breakdowns are among the most common emergencies, particularly during London’s colder months.
Key signs: no hot water, strange noises, low pressure, or no pilot light.
Never attempt to fix a boiler yourself — it requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. QBS offers 24-hour heating repairs and boiler servicing to keep your home warm and safe.
3. Electrical Failures and Power Outages
Sudden power loss can result from faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or external supply issues.
What to check:
- Look for tripped switches in the fuse box.
- Test nearby sockets for faults.
- If the issue persists, call a qualified electrician.
QBS electricians are fully certified to diagnose and repair electrical faults safely and efficiently across all London boroughs.
4. Roof Leaks and Storm Damage
Heavy rain and wind can cause unexpected roof leaks, especially in older properties.
Immediate action:
- Contain water using buckets or towels.
- Avoid entering the loft if wiring or insulation is wet.
- Arrange an emergency roof inspection.
QBS Property Maintenance offers roofing repair and replacement services to prevent leaks and water ingress, available 24 hours a day.
5. Blocked Drains and Toilets
Blocked drains are both unpleasant and potentially damaging if left untreated.
Signs to watch for: slow draining water, foul smells, or gurgling noises.
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners — they can cause more harm than good. QBS provides professional drain unblocking services with advanced tools to resolve issues quickly and hygienically.
6. Broken Locks and Security Emergencies
A jammed or broken lock is more than an inconvenience; it’s a security risk.
QBS’s emergency locksmiths can replace, repair, or resecure locks at any time of day or night. We cover all London boroughs and provide fast, reliable assistance when your home’s safety is at stake.
7. Gas Leaks and Carbon Monoxide Risks
A gas leak is a serious emergency that requires immediate attention.
If you smell gas:
- Turn off the gas supply at the meter.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
- Do not use electrical switches or naked flames.
- Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
Once the area is safe, QBS Gas Safe engineers can inspect, repair, and restore your system to full safety compliance.
8. Roof Tile or Gutter Damage
Fallen roof tiles or blocked gutters can quickly lead to leaks and damp patches inside the property.
QBS’s roofing specialists provide same-day repairs for guttering and tile replacement, preventing further water ingress and structural issues.
9. Electrical Appliance Failures
Malfunctioning appliances such as washing machines or cookers can be both inconvenient and dangerous.
If an appliance sparks, smokes, or trips the electrics, disconnect it immediately and call a professional. QBS electrical engineers are available to inspect and repair appliance-related faults safely.
10. Damp, Mould, and Water Ingress
Persistent damp or mould growth can affect air quality and lead to structural damage.
QBS Property Maintenance can identify the root cause, whether it’s poor ventilation, damaged roofing, or plumbing leaks, and provide long-term solutions to prevent reoccurrence.
Preventing Future Emergencies
While emergencies can’t always be avoided, regular maintenance reduces the risk significantly. Schedule periodic checks for plumbing, electrical systems, roofing, and heating equipment. Keeping your property well-maintained ensures safety, saves money, and prevents stress in the long run.
QBS Property Maintenance offers tailored maintenance packages to suit every home and budget, helping homeowners across London stay prepared year-round.
Why Choose QBS Property Maintenance
With years of experience providing property repair and maintenance services across Greater London, QBS is trusted by homeowners, landlords, and businesses alike. Our team of certified engineers and tradespeople are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency call-outs.
We pride ourselves on fast response times, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service. Whether it’s a burst pipe, power failure, or roofing emergency, QBS has you covered.
Contact QBS Property Maintenance today to request emergency assistance or to schedule a maintenance visit.









