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Emergency vs. Not-an-Emergency.
Most communities line up around these categories, though every property defines emergency slightly differently. Use this to calibrate — and when in doubt, call the emergency line.
Property policies vary.
Your lease or welcome letter may define emergency more narrowly or more broadly than this list. When they conflict, follow your property's definition.
Emergency
Call the emergency line.
- Gas smell or CO alarm
- Fire or active smoke
- Active flooding (water pouring in, not slow leak)
- No running water at all
- No heat in freezing weather / no AC in dangerous heat
- Sparking, burning smell, or exposed live wiring
- Sewage backup into the unit
- Broken exterior door or window that leaves the unit insecure
- Being locked out with no reasonable alternative
Priority
File today.
- Slow leak actively causing damage
- No hot water (cold water works)
- Only toilet not flushing
- Refrigerator fully out with food inside
- HVAC not working in moderate weather
- Broken interior door lock
Routine
Standard ticket.
- Dripping faucet
- Loose cabinet or door hardware
- One burner out on the stove
- Screen door tear
- Squeaky or sticking window
- Blinds or cosmetic damage
Printable Emergency vs. Not-an-Emergency PDF
Optional printable version of this resource.
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