Plumbing emergencies
How to find and turn off your water mains
The single most useful thing you can know in a plumbing emergency is how to turn off your water. It takes thirty seconds when you know where to look, so find yours now, not mid-flood.
Find the meter and stop valve
Your water meter is almost always at the front of the property near the street boundary, under a cover marked Water. Open it and you will see the meter and, next to it, the shut-off valve.
Turn it off
There are two common valves. A ball valve has a lever, turn it 90 degrees so it sits across the pipe. A T-top or round valve turns clockwise until it stops. Then open a tap inside to confirm the water is off.
Know your isolation taps too
Many homes also have a stop tap where the water enters the house, plus isolation taps under sinks, behind the toilet and at the hot water unit. Turning off just the fixture that is leaking lets you keep water on everywhere else.
Common questions
What if the valve is old and stuck?
Use steady pressure and do not force it. A seized valve is worth replacing on a planned visit so it works when you need it. In an emergency, your water authority can shut the supply at the street.
Should I turn the water off when I go away?
For a long trip it is good practice, especially for older homes or upstairs apartments. It removes the risk of coming home to a flood from a failed hose or fitting.
Need a hand with this?
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