Freeze-morning triage
| Caller says | Advice | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| "Pipe burst, water everywhere" | Shut off the main now | Emergency |
| "Water through the ceiling" | Shut off the main; stay clear of wet ceilings and outlets | Emergency |
| "No water, pipes frozen, no leak" | Open a faucet; gentle heat; no open flame | Book; call back if it bursts |
| "Outdoor spigot leaking" | Close the inside valve to it | Next day |
Shut-off guidance on every call does two things: limits the damage, and keeps your list honest, because a leak that stops at the main can often wait an hour or two.
Example call
Our pipes froze and now one burst in the crawl space.
Please shut off the main valve first. Do you know where it is? Usually near where the line enters, or by the water heater.
Got it, it's off.
Thanks. Our emergency visit is $189, credited toward the repair. Shall I put you on today's emergency list?
Fee agreed · emergency list position 4
Don't let the phone decide the order
When every call goes to voicemail, the order you call back is whoever left the best message. When every call is answered and triaged, you work active leaks first. And nobody gives up on you: 85% of callers who can't reach a business won't call back (BIA/Kelsey).
What Josie does
- Surge Overflow: When the office line is busy or a heat wave hits, Josie answers the overflow, all at once.
- 24/7 Emergency Line: Answers every after-hours call and sorts real emergencies from routine jobs with your rules.
- Emergency Fee Consent + Payment Link: States your after-hours fee and gets a clear yes before anyone is woken. Can text a payment link.
- For your trade: After-Hours Answering Service for Emergency Plumbers
Common questions
What should homeowners do when a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water valve immediately, keep away from wet ceilings and electrical outlets, and call a plumber.
Is a frozen pipe an emergency?
A frozen pipe that has not burst usually isn't, but it should be checked soon. A burst pipe that can't be shut off is.
What does HireJosie cost?
HireJosie is $29/month for 200 AI minutes, starting with a 7-day free trial — cancel before day 7 and you pay nothing. Pro is $79/month for 500 minutes, with $0.25/minute overage after that. Every feature is on every plan, and every plan starts with a 7-day free trial.