Plumbing in Iowa is wells, long laterals, septics, and basements that take storm water after the wind has passed. A pressure tank that short-cycles shows up as sputtering taps. A frost-free hydrant splits if the hose stayed on. Clay lines belly and a downstairs tub burps when the washer drains. That is the lateral, not the faucet. Say whether you have water where you do not want it, or no water where you do.
A sump that quits during the hard rain under a storm is not a dripping trap. If the pit is full, say so. Sewage at a floor drain is not a clogged sink, and it is not a hail bruise. Roof water staining a ceiling can look like a pipe; if every faucet runs and the stain is under a west slope, say that. Galvanized lines in older towns crust and pinhole when a stuck valve is forced. Know which symptom you actually have.
Septic odors after a house full of people are a volume problem. Say whether waste goes to a tank in the yard or a municipal main. Root intrusion from a windbreak is common on older laterals. Water heaters leak at the tank or go lukewarm on a busy morning. Know gas, electric, or propane, and whether a pan exists. Shut the supply if the floor is flooding, and say that you did. A disturbed flue belongs up front.
Winter still freezes sill cocks and garage lines. Say if the hose is on and if the interior valve is closed. This is a poor week to learn there is no isolation valve. Do not import a city north-wall story if the failure is a well that stopped in the yard. The main shutoff location changes the first step. If it will not close, say so. Holiday use and ordinary use are different loads on a septic.
Lead with flood, freeze, no water, no hot water, or a drain that returns. Name the town and well or city supply. Standing water does not wait on the next clear day. Call the number on this page.