Key Takeaways
- 1Emergency plumber call-outs on the Costa del Sol cost €100-€180 (evenings/weekends higher).
- 2Know your stopcock location BEFORE an emergency—most are under the kitchen sink or in a utility cupboard.
- 3Water damage claims require photos and a plumber's report for insurance purposes.
- 4Save a trusted plumber's number now—searching during a flood wastes precious time.
Emergency? Do This First:
- 1. Turn off the water at the stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink)
- 2. Turn off the water heater to prevent damage
- 3. Take photos/video for insurance
- 4. Call a 24/7 emergency plumber
A burst pipe at 2am is every homeowner's nightmare—especially when you're unfamiliar with the Spanish system. Here's everything you need to know about emergency plumbing on the Costa del Sol.
Emergency Plumber Costs (2026)
| Time/Day | Call-Out Fee | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday (8am - 6pm) | €50 - €80 | €50 - €70 |
| Evening (6pm - 10pm) | €80 - €120 | €70 - €90 |
| Night (10pm - 8am) | €120 - €180 | €90 - €120 |
| Weekend | €100 - €150 | €80 - €100 |
| Public Holiday | €150 - €200 | €100 - €130 |
* Prices are for the Costa del Sol area. Remote locations may incur additional travel charges.
What Counts as a Plumbing Emergency?
TRUE Emergencies
- • Burst pipe flooding your home
- • No water to the entire property
- • Sewage backing up into the house
- • Gas smell from water heater
- • Water heater leaking significantly
Can Wait Until Morning
- • Dripping tap
- • Slow drain (not blocked)
- • Running toilet
- • Low water pressure
- • Minor leak you can contain with a bucket
Need a Plumber Now?
Find 24/7 emergency plumbers on the Costa del Sol. English-speaking, fast response.
Where is My Stopcock? (Llave de Paso)
The llave de paso general (main stopcock) controls all water to your property. Finding it BEFORE an emergency could save you thousands in water damage.
Common Locations:
- • Apartments: Usually under the kitchen sink or in a utility cupboard
- • Villas: Often near the water meter, in a ground-level box outside
- • Townhouses: Check under stairs or in the garage
Pro tip: Turn it off and on once a year to ensure it doesn't seize up. A stuck stopcock in an emergency is a disaster.
Insurance Claims for Water Damage
Spanish home insurance (seguro de hogar) typically covers water damage, but you need to:
Document everything — Photos and video of the damage before cleanup
Get a written report — Ask the plumber for a detailed report of the cause
Report within 7 days — Most policies require prompt notification
Keep all invoices — For the plumber, cleanup, and any damaged items
Written by
Pedro Martinez
Plumbing Contractor at CostaTrades
Expert contributor covering home maintenance, renovation, and property management on the Costa del Sol. Helping expats navigate Spanish construction and property ownership.
