How to Find and Shut Off Your Main Water Valve

In a plumbing emergency, knowing where to turn off the water is the most useful thing you can know.

Where to look

Where the water line enters the house: a basement, crawl space, utility room, or near the water heater.

Turn it off and on once a year so it does not seize. If it is stiff or leaks, have a plumber replace it.

Most sinks and toilets have their own small valves underneath. Use these for a single-fixture leak.

Hang a tag on the main valve so everyone in the home can find it.

Send a request and a plumber will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.