How Do I Shut off Water Fast During a Pipe Burst?

The main shutoff valve controls water for the entire house. It is usually located where the water line enters the home, often near the water meter in a basement, crawlspace, or garage. In warmer climates, it might be outside, but in colder regions with freezing winters, the valve is typically indoors to avoid freezing.

Look for a round wheel or a lever handle on a pipe. A wheel valve turns clockwise to close; a lever valve should be turned a quarter turn so the handle is perpendicular to the pipe. If you cannot locate it, check the water meter box outside, but be cautious of insects or debris.

• Check the basement or crawlspace for a pipe with a meter.
• Look near the water heater or where the main line enters.
• In apartments, ask the building manager or look in a utility closet.
• If you have a well, the shutoff is near the pressure tank.
• Label the valve clearly with a tag or string.

If the burst is isolated to one sink, toilet, or appliance, you may not need to shut off the whole house. Look for a small valve on the supply line near the fixture. For example, under a sink, there are usually two valves, one for hot and one for cold. Turn them clockwise to close.

For a washing machine or dishwasher, the shutoff valves are often behind the appliance. Some newer appliances have a single shutoff valve. If you cannot find a fixture valve, use the main shutoff. This is faster than searching for a small valve during an emergency.

Once the water is shut off, call a plumber to repair the burst pipe. Do not attempt to fix a pipe yourself unless you have experience. The plumber can also check for other weak spots. After the repair, you may need to inspect for water damage in walls and floors.

If water has soaked into drywall, flooring, or insulation, professional drying and removal may be necessary. Local water damage pros can extract water and dry the area to prevent mold. They can also handle flooring removal and drywall repair. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see what your insurance covers for water damage.