14 Jul 2025

Commercial Plumber: Emergency Plumbing and Disaster Preparedness in Wellington: Be Ready for Earthquakes and More

Living in Wellington means being prepared for earthquakes and other natural disasters. At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we specialise in ensuring your home is ready to handle emergencies. From plumbing safety to water supply security, our experienced team can help you set up essential systems before disaster strikes—so you're not left unprepared when it counts most.

Wellington sits in a seismic zone, and while earthquakes can’t be predicted, their impact can be managed with proper planning. Our team can assist with essential installations and recommendations that improve your household’s disaster resilience.

Earthquake Preparation Essentials for Your Home

1. Secure Your Hot Water Cylinder
A hot water cylinder must be anchored properly to prevent tipping during a quake. If unsecured, it can rupture water lines or damage surrounding walls. We can professionally secure your cylinder to meet safety standards.

2. Install Water Shut-Off and Gas Shut-Off Valves
Knowing where your water and gas shut-off valves are—and being able to access them quickly—is vital in any emergency. We can help you locate and clearly label these points. We also offer the installation of automatic gas shut-off valves, which activate if a line breaks, reducing the risk of fire after an earthquake.

3. Alternative Water Collection and Storage Solutions
In the event municipal water is disrupted, having an emergency supply is crucial. We can install rainwater tanks connected to your downpipes, offering long-term access to clean water. You can also use polythene sheets to collect dew or rain in smaller quantities. Learn how to safely access water from your hot water cylinder in emergencies.

4. Chimney Removal and Roof Flashing
Old brick chimneys can collapse in an earthquake. We offer chimney removal services and can flash over the roof to maintain weatherproofing while eliminating a major hazard.

5. Gas and Water Heating Tools
Having a portable heating source such as a Primus stove with waterproof matches or a lighter is important if power is out. We can recommend suitable setups for safe use.

6. Emergency Supply Storage
We advise storing canned food and bottled water in a secure, accessible space—preferably somewhere that won’t be buried under rubble in case of structural failure.

7. Emergency Tool Kit and Neighbour Contacts
Having basic tools like a hammer, crowbar, spanner, hacksaw, and multi-screwdriver can help in multiple situations. Keep your neighbours’ contact details handy in case you need support or to coordinate emergency plans.

8. Secure Heavy Furniture and Fixtures
We can assist with securing plumbing fixtures, cabinets, and large appliances that could shift during an earthquake, reducing the risk of injury and damage.

At Laser Plumbing Wellington East, we’re more than just plumbers—we’re your local disaster preparedness experts. Whether you need to earthquake-proof your plumbing system, install water storage, or upgrade safety systems, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to prepare your home for the unexpected.