: Tonight I noticed a small amount of water on the floor coming from the hot water heater. It probably needs to be replaced. Can I deal with this two days from now, or does it need to be addressed immediately for safety reasons? Thanks for your help. If it leaks more will you be creating a nuisnace with a neighbor, downstairs apartment etc? Do you see a shut off valve on the cold water line feeding the heater? If its a small leak, will not damage anyoneelses property, and you have a shut off valve I would be willing to wait a day or two-if it really starts leaking you can shut off the water going to the tank and call a plumber