San Antonio, TX
Leak and pipe repair help in San Antonio: SAWS Plumbers to People
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
SAWS's Plumbers to People program, running since 1994, fixes leaking faucets, leaking toilets and broken pipes for free for income-qualified homeowners who own and live in a home valued under $300,000. Drain leaks and clogs are sewer problems and aren't covered. Income eligibility runs through SAWS's Uplift program, and a large active leak can be reported at 210-704-SAVE.
What's different in San Antonio
Plumbers to People, started in 1994, provides free plumbing repairs to low-income residential customers to reduce water loss from leaks. [1]
Eligible repairs include leaking faucets, leaking toilets and broken pipes; drain leaks and clogged pipes are generally sewer problems and aren't eligible. [1]
Customers must meet income requirements, own and live in the home, have a home valued under $300,000, and be SAWS water customers; eligibility starts with the Uplift program, and big leaks can be called in at 210-704-SAVE. [1]
The City's Neighborhood Housing Services Department committed $250,000 to the program, with partner repairs of up to $10,000 per home planned. [2]
Covered vs. not covered
| Problem | Covered? |
|---|---|
| Dripping faucet | Yes |
| Running or leaking toilet | Yes |
| Broken supply pipe | Yes |
| Clogged drain or sewer backup | No, sewer-related |
| Leaking drain line | No, sewer-related |
If you don't qualify
Most supply leaks are quick fixes. Shut off the fixture's valve, then call for pipe repair or faucet repair. Once it's fixed, ask SAWS about a bill adjustment; see San Antonio high water bills.
What San Antonio homeowners usually check next
- SymptomWater leaking from the ceiling
- SymptomNoisy or banging pipes
Common questions
What is SAWS Plumbers to People?
A program that repairs leaks for free for income-qualified SAWS customers who own their homes.
How long has Plumbers to People existed?
Since 1994.
Does Plumbers to People fix clogged drains?
No; clogs and drain leaks are sewer problems and aren't eligible.
What home value limit applies to Plumbers to People?
The home must be valued under $300,000.
Can San Antonio renters use Plumbers to People?
No; applicants must own and live in the home.
How do I apply for SAWS leak repair help?
Start with SAWS's Uplift program to confirm income eligibility.
Who do I call about a big leak in San Antonio?
SAWS at 210-704-SAVE.
Has San Antonio expanded Plumbers to People?
The city committed $250,000, with partner repairs up to $10,000 per home planned.
Does the program fix leaking toilets?
Yes, leaking toilets are among the eligible repairs.
What if I don't qualify for Plumbers to People?
Shut off the fixture valve and hire a plumber; then ask SAWS about a leak adjustment.
More plumbing help in San Antonio
- Frozen Pipe Repair in San AntonioFrozen pipes in San Antonio: pipes past the SAWS meter are the owner's, how to shut water off at the meter, SAWS freeze tips, and what not to do.
- Backflow Testing in San AntonioSAWS backflow testing rules for San Antonio: the June 30 annual deadline, the codes behind it, reminder notices, and what a 10-day notice means.
- Toilet Installation in San AntonioSAWS toilet rebates in San Antonio: the current high-efficiency toilet rebate, which toilets qualify, SAWS's history of free toilet programs, and installation tips.
- Water bill suddenly high in San AntonioA high SAWS bill usually means a leak. How to find it, which leaks SAWS reviews for a credit, the 60-day deadline after repair, and the paperwork it wants.
- Sewer Line Repair in San AntonioSan Antonio sewer clogs: a licensed plumber clears your side, and if the blockage is past your property, SAWS may reimburse costs. Marking, the call and paperwork.
- Drain backing up in San AntonioWhy San Antonio drains back up: grease causes nearly 70% of local sewer blockages, the surprising sources of it, safe checks, and how to get rid of grease.
- Water Line Repair in San AntonioSAWS's service line inventory: over half of 600,000 lines unidentified, yearly letters to unknown, lead or galvanized lines, and free inspections for pre-1989 homes.
- Pipe Repair: the full guideHow plumbers repair leaking, corroded and noisy water pipes, temporary fixes you can use until they arrive, and when a leak means bigger problems.
- Plumbing in San AntonioLocal water, housing and climate conditions, and the calls San Antonio homes need most.
Sources (2)
- SAWS, Plumbers to People · checked 2026-10-03
- SAWS, SAWS Uplift helps bring Plumbers to People · checked 2026-10-03