Phone answered 24/7 · Chandler, AZ and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (480) 526-4676
Kyrene Water Damage HelpChandler, AZ · Answered 24/7

How Do You Turn off Water to Your House in an Emergency?

Last updated October 23, 2026

Call Now (480) 526-4676

The short answer

Finding Your Main Water Shutoff Valve

Your main water shutoff valve is the gateway for all water entering your home. It's usually located where the main water supply line enters the house. Common places include the garage, a utility closet near the water heater, or a mechanical room. In some homes, the valve might be in an exterior wall box or near the front foundation. Knowing its exact location before an emergency allows you to act immediately.

How to Operate Different Types of Valves

There are two main types of shutoff valves: a gate valve or a ball valve. A gate valve has a round wheel that you turn clockwise several times to tighten. A ball valve has a lever handle. To close a ball valve, turn the lever a quarter turn so it is perpendicular to the water pipe. Use firm, steady pressure, but avoid excessive force to prevent breaking the valve.

  • Gate Valve: Turn the round wheel clockwise until it stops. Do not force it.
  • Ball Valve: Turn the lever handle a quarter turn until it is at a right angle to the pipe.
  • Use Tools: An adjustable wrench can provide leverage on a stubborn valve.
  • Apply Lubricant: A spray like WD-40 can help loosen a corroded valve.
  • Street Shutoff: The curb stop is a backup if your interior valve fails.
  • Call a Plumber: If you cannot operate either valve, contact a plumber immediately.

Turning off Water at the Street

If your interior main valve is inaccessible or broken, you may need to use the city shutoff, called the curb stop. This valve is located near the property line, typically in a covered box in the ground. You will need a long tool called a curb key to reach down and turn the valve. The valve usually turns clockwise to shut off. Once closed, you have stopped water at the property line.

Immediate Steps After Shutting off the Water

Once the water is off, your priority shifts to damage control. Open a few faucets on the lowest level of your home to drain remaining water from the pipes and relieve pressure. This helps prevent residual water from leaking out. Then, identify the source of the leak, if possible, such as a burst washing machine hose or a cracked pipe. Take photos for documentation if you plan to file an insurance claim.

When to Call for Professional Water Damage Help

For significant flooding, contaminated water from a sewer backup, or water that has soaked into walls, floors, or ceilings, you need professional restoration. Local water damage pros have industrial equipment for thorough water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. They can also assess structural safety and help prevent mold. In a hot, dry climate, persistent moisture in building materials can create problems if not addressed properly.

Water damage restoration involves more than just drying surfaces. Professionals use moisture meters to detect hidden wetness inside walls and under flooring. They set up a controlled drying environment with air movers and dehumidifiers. They can also handle contaminated water situations safely. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. After stopping the water, calling for a professional assessment is a prudent next step for major incidents.

  • Large Volume: If more than a bucket's worth of water has flooded an area.
  • Contaminated Water: If the water is from a sewer, toilet, or flood (gray or black water).
  • Hidden Moisture: If walls, ceilings, or subfloors are wet and you cannot dry them yourself.
  • Mold Concern: If the area was wet for more than 24-48 hours before drying began.
  • Electrical Hazard: If water has contacted or is near electrical outlets or appliances.
  • Structural Worry: If ceilings are sagging or flooring is buckling from water saturation.

Need help right now?

Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.

Call Now (480) 526-4676

Frequently asked questions

What if I can't find my main water shutoff valve?

Check your home's original inspection report, which often notes the location. If not, look for the water meter near the street; the shutoff is usually on your side of it. A plumber can quickly identify and label it for you during a service call. Knowing this location ahead of time is crucial for emergency preparedness.

Should I turn off the water if a pipe is just dripping?

For a minor drip, you can often use a smaller, local shutoff valve under a sink or behind a toilet to isolate that fixture. This allows you to keep water on to the rest of the house while you make repairs. Only use the main shutoff for major leaks, burst pipes, or when you cannot find the local valve.

How do I know if my water is contaminated after a leak?

Clean water comes from broken supply lines. Gray water may contain chemicals from appliances. Black water is severely contaminated from sewage or flooding. If the water source is not a clean supply line, assume it is contaminated. Avoid contact and call for professional contaminated water cleanup. Always see a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure.

Call Now (480) 526-4676