How to Shut Off Your Water in an Emergency

Step 1: Locate the Main Water Shut-Off Valve

Your main water shut-off valve controls the flow of water into your home. It’s typically found in basements, crawl spaces, or on the exterior of your house. In some homes, it's located near the water meter or where the water line enters the home.

If you’re unsure where the valve is, it’s a good idea to check when you’re not in an emergency situation, so you can act fast when necessary.

Step 2: Turn Off the Valve

Once you locate the valve, turn it clockwise to close it. For ball valves (the round handle), simply rotate it 90 degrees. If you have a traditional gate valve (the T-shaped handle), turn it slowly until it stops. Don’t use excessive force—just enough to make sure it’s tightly closed.

Step 3: Turn Off All Faucets and Appliances

After shutting off the main water valve, turn off all faucets, toilets, and appliances that use water to drain any remaining water from the pipes. This will reduce water pressure and prevent further leakage or damage.

Step 4: Call an Emergency Plumber

With the water supply turned off, you can prevent further flooding. The next step is to call a licensed emergency plumber for repairs. We recommend reaching out to a trusted, professional plumbing service to assess and fix the issue as soon as possible.

Step 5: Prevent Future Emergencies

After the issue is resolved, consider installing a water alarm or smart valve to monitor your home’s plumbing system. These systems can alert you to leaks and help you respond faster in case of another emergency.