What counts as an emergency and when to call the emergency service

Why this matters. The emergency service works around the clock to respond to situations that can’t wait. The more clearly everyone understands where the line is, the faster help reaches the places that really need it.

Call right away. Any water leak, of any size. A flooded stairwell, basement or flat. Heating that has stopped working in cold weather. No electricity in the stairwell or in a whole flat. Someone stuck in the lift. A gas smell. A sewage blockage that’s overflowing. A roof element or icicle hanging dangerously. An entrance door that won’t close in winter.

A regular report is enough. A light bulb that’s out. A door closer that doesn’t work. A window in the stairwell that closes poorly. A dirty stairwell. Bulky waste that needs collecting. A damaged bench.

A borderline case. A small drip from a pipe in the basement. It’s not dramatic, but the cause is technical, so it’s best to report it right away.

The golden rule. If in doubt, call. A visit that turns out to be unnecessary beats a flooded basement by morning.