Close the main valve as soon as you find a burst pipe or sewage backup in Buford. If you smell gas, leave the area and call 911 or the City of Buford Gas Department at 770-932-7981 during the day or 770-932-7986 after hours, from a neighbor's home. Then call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Buford.
When you call
The number on this page connects you with an independent plumber who works in Buford. Describe what failed, confirm whether the water is off and give the address. Mention whether you are inside city limits or in the wider Buford mailing area, since that changes the utility and permit office. Ask about after-hours pricing first. Arrival depends on the hour and the plumber's schedule, so no time is promised.
Pricing factors
- Time of day. Night and weekend calls usually cost more.
- Location. Slab, crawl space or finished wall all change the labor.
- Repair size. A fitting versus a water heater or pipe section.
- Permits. Inside city limits, Buford's Inspection Department handles inspections (678-546-3514). Unincorporated Buford-mailing addresses go to Gwinnett County Planning and Development.
Buford's own utilities
Buford, the old Leather City at the south end of Lake Lanier, runs its own water, sewer and natural gas. Its water comes from Lake Lanier and is treated at the city's membrane ultrafiltration plant, which opened in early 2024, with a small share bought from Gwinnett County. The city also runs its own sewer collection system and treatment plant, and a fats, oils and grease program to keep grease out of the sewer, where it causes blockages.
For a water or sewer emergency after hours, call the city at 770-932-7986; customer service during business hours is 678-889-4600. Buford-mailing addresses outside city limits, including Sugar Hill, may be on Gwinnett County water instead, so check your bill.
Gas leaks inside the city's gas territory go to the City of Buford Gas Department, not Atlanta Gas Light. The city says to leave the area right away and call from a neighboring home or business.
The median home was built in 1996, and about a quarter predate 1980. Older houses near downtown and the Tannery Row area are where worn valves and aging drains tend to fail, while newer subdivisions see more water heater and supply hose failures.
Checklist before the plumber gets there
- Main valve closed
- Gas or power to the water heater off if it is leaking
- Electrical breakers off in wet areas
- Your utility bill nearby so you know who serves the address
- Pets and children kept away from any wastewater
Emergency Plumber questions in Buford
I smell gas near the water heater or furnace. What is the safe move?
Who handles a water main break or a sewer overflow in the street?
My mailing address uses the town name. Does it matter whether I am inside city limits?
Sewage is coming up through a tub or floor drain. What should I do first?
More plumbing services in Buford
Emergency Plumber nearby
Helpful guides
Sources
Last updated: