After a flood or storm: is it safe to turn the water and gas back on?
After a flood or cyclone, have a licensed plumber check your pipes, hot water system and septic tank, and a licensed gasfitter check any gas appliance that went under water, before you use them. Ask your council whether the town water is safe to drink and the sewerage system is working.
Can I turn the power back on?
Not if water got into the house. Have a licensed electrician inspect it first. The Electrical Safety Office says a licensed electrician may need to test the switchboard, wiring and appliances before the power can be reconnected.
- Don’t touch a switchboard that got wet.
- Throw out small appliances that got wet, such as kettles and toasters, or have an electrician repair them.
- Have an electrician check hard-wired appliances, such as air conditioners and stoves, before you use them.
- Stay away from damaged solar panels and batteries. They can still be live with the power off.
What should I check before turning the water back on?
Look for damaged pipes and fittings. If you can’t see the pipes, turn off every tap and watch the water meter. If the dial keeps turning, you probably have a broken pipe. Call a licensed plumber.
A licensed plumber should also check hot water units, pumps and outside pipework before you use them.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
Ask your council first. If it says the water is safe, run the taps for a while to flush out water that sat in the pipes, and clean the tap aerators.
If the water smells odd or looks discoloured, don’t drink it. Tell your council straight away.
Can I drink water from my rainwater tank?
If no flood water got into the tank, the water should be fine, but QBCC recommends filtering or treating it first.
Can I use the toilets?
Check with your council that the local sewerage system is working. If it is, you can use the toilets. QBCC recommends having a licensed plumber check the pipes and clean the cistern first.
Can I use my septic tank or treatment plant?
Not until a licensed plumber has checked it, because flood water may have got in. If you have a treatment plant with electrical parts, a licensed electrician should check those before the power goes back on. Use less water until it has been checked.
Is my hot water system safe to use?
- Electric: have a licensed electrician check it.
- Solar or heat pump: a licensed plumber may need to inspect or service it.
- Gas: a licensed gasfitter may need to inspect or service it.
Can I turn the gas back on?
Not yet, if any gas appliance, meter or regulator was under water or damaged. A licensed gasfitter must inspect it before the gas is turned back on, and will give you a compliance certificate.
For a gas leak or other gas emergency, call the Petroleum and Gas Inspectorate emergency line on 1300 910 933.
Who do I call?
| Problem | Licence to look for |
|---|---|
| Pipes, taps, toilets, hot water | Plumbing and Drainage |
| Gas appliances and gas supply | Gasfitting |
| Septic tanks and treatment plants | Drainage - On-site Sewerage Facility or Plumbing and Drainage |
| Power, pumps and anything electrical | A licensed electrician. Check them on the Electrical Safety Office licence search |
Plumbing and gas work needs a licence at any price, even a small job. If your insurer recommends a tradie, check their licence too.
For the building repairs, see Storm damage repairs. Wet weather also brings termites: see Termites after heavy rain.