Every DIY homeowner should have some emergency repair plumbing supplies on hand to be able to quickly repair common plumbing problems that occur in the home. These basic plumbing supplies are inexpensive and take up very little room in the garage or basement, but could save you a lot of inconvenience or clean-up.

A tube of plumber’s repair putty. This epoxy putty is invaluable to fix any plumbing leak. Just break off a piece of the putty, knead it in your hands until the two parts form a uniform color, then press it firmly around the leak. It will harden in less than an hour, and will last until a permanent repair can be made. If the leak is in a water supply line, turn off the water first if possible, but it will stop a leak under pressure, if you can keep it in place until it hardens.

Rubber pipe repair clamps. Water supply lines can be temporarily repaired by using a rubber gasket held in place with a metal sleeve. Commercial pipe repair clamps are available in different sizes and are easy to use. Simply loosen the screws on the clamp, slip the rubber sleeve over the leak, slide the metal clamp over the rubber gasket and tighten the screws until the leak stops. These clamps are made for temporary repairs, but will last for years.

Assorted faucet washers. Dripping faucets can be very annoying, but can be easily repaired if you have the right parts to replace the worn out washer. Even if the washer isn’t the exact size you need, a washer close in size will stop a drip until you can get the right size washer.

Slip washers for drain lines. Bathroom and kitchen drain line slip washers often need to be replaced after you take a drain apart to clear a clog. Having several extras on hand will allow you to put a drain line back together after you have solved a clogging problem.

Hand auger drain snake. Most household clogged drains can be cleared with a hand drain snake and a little effort. It may be easier to remove the clog if you take the p-trap apart first, giving you a clear shot down the pipe with the snake. Having the slip washers available will let you put it back together without leaks.

There are other emergency plumbing supplies that will be handy to have from time to time, but just having these supplies on hand will allow you to make emergency repairs in the majority of cases.

One more tip: Know where the main shutoff valve to your house is located. If all else fails, turn off the water supply to stop any more water from leaking and causing damage until you can call a professional.