Emergency repair help in San Jose, CA
In San Jose, the emergencies to plan for are winter storms that bring roof leaks, falling trees and flooding, earthquakes that can damage gas and water lines, and power outages. Know your utilities and shutoffs, take the first safety step, and call 833-877-1717 to request an independent provider.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 13, 2026 · Review standards
If someone is in danger
Call 911 for fire, smoke, injuries or anyone trapped. If you smell gas, leave the building and call the gas utility or 911 from outside. Stay far from downed power lines and report them to the electric utility. Repairs come after people are safe.
Emergencies to plan for in San Jose
Winter storms
Most of San Jose's rain falls in winter, often in strong storms that saturate the ground, topple trees, overwhelm gutters and push water into roofs, crawl spaces and low areas. Clear gutters before the season and check the attic after big storms. See roof leaking in the rain.
Earthquakes: gas and water
After a strong earthquake, check for gas leaks, water leaks and electrical damage. Shut off the gas only if you smell gas, hear hissing or see a damaged line, and then leave and call PG&E or 911; once it is off, the utility or a qualified professional must restore it. Know where your water main is, since broken pipes are common after shaking. See how to shut off your water.
Power outages
Storms and wildfire-weather precautions can cause outages in parts of the region. Run generators outdoors only, never backfeed a wall outlet, and keep refrigerators closed.
Older homes and sewer laterals
Many neighborhoods have older clay or cast-iron sewer laterals that tree roots can break into. Several slow drains at once, or water rising in the lowest drain, point to the main line. See sewage backup guide.
San Jose utilities: who to call first
Utility-side problems, such as a main break in the street, a gas leak or a neighborhood outage, go to the utility. Problems on your side of the meter usually need a private provider.
- Water: San Jose Water serves most of the city; the San José Municipal Water System serves some areas
- Electric and gas: PG&E (delivery and outages)
Service areas follow the property address, so check your bill if you are not sure which utility serves you.
Before you hire in California
California licenses contractors through the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Check the license before you approve work; the CSLB site lets you look it up.
Ask for a written estimate, proof of insurance and how the work is priced before you approve it. Emergency steps that stop damage come first; permanent work may need a permit.
Repair help in San Jose
Step-by-step guides
How RepairNowUSA works in San Jose
Call 833-877-1717 and describe what is happening, the property type and the ZIP code. RepairNowUSA looks for a participating independent provider for that kind of work in your area and connects you if one is available. The provider confirms timing, scope and price with you and does the work. RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service, not a contractor, and availability and response times are not guaranteed.
San Jose repair questions
Should I shut off my gas after an earthquake?
Only if you smell gas, hear hissing or see damage. Then leave the building and call PG&E or 911 from outside. Once gas is shut off, it must be turned back on by the utility or a qualified professional.
Who do I call for a power outage in San Jose?
Report outages to PG&E. If only part of your home is out, check breakers, then call an electrician.
How do I check a contractor's license in California?
Use the license lookup on the CSLB website and confirm the license is active and covers the work.
Can I call RepairNowUSA at night?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on the ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Official San Jose resources
Official resources are linked for utility, permit and safety context. Those agencies do not endorse RepairNowUSA.