Housekeeping · Water leak readiness

Find and label your home's water shutoff before a leak

Locate fixture valves and the home's water main in advance; do not operate shared or utility-owned equipment without permission.

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Knowing how to isolate the water supply can help limit damage from a broken pipe. The American Red Cross advises shutting off the main valve when pipes are damaged and contacting a plumber. In apartments or shared buildings, consult building management because residents may not be authorized to use common valves.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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Use the building plan, management instructions or meter-area information to locate the shutoff serving only your unit. Do not open sealed or shared utility equipment.
Find individual shutoff valves for sinks, toilets, washing machines and other fixtures, then photograph their locations.
Record the valve location and the building manager's and water utility's contact information where household members can find it.
If a leak occurs, move people to safety first. Never enter standing water near outlets, appliances or other electrical hazards.
Only if access is dry, safe and permitted, close the correct valve as directed by its markings or management instructions. Never force a seized valve.
If water continues or a shared valve is involved, call building management, the water utility or a plumber. Do not repair valves or break meter seals yourself.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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