How Do I Turn off Water After a Pipe Bursts?

Your main shutoff valve is the single point you can control all water entering your home. It is typically located where the main water line enters the building, often in a basement, utility closet, crawlspace, or near the water heater. The valve itself is usually a round wheel or a lever handle. Knowing its location before a pipe bursts saves critical time and prevents extensive flooding.

If the indoor valve is inaccessible or missing, you must use the water meter box at the street. Find the rectangular metal lid in your yard or sidewalk. Inside, you will see the meter and a shutoff valve that requires a special T-key tool to turn. Many hardware stores sell this key. Turning this valve clockwise will stop all water to your property.

• Look for a rectangular metal lid near the street or property line.
• Use a screwdriver or pry bar to lift the heavy lid safely.
• Locate the valve on the street side of the water meter.
• Insert a water meter key into the valve slot and turn clockwise.
• Turn until the valve is fully closed and water flow ceases.
• Replace the lid securely to prevent a tripping hazard.

Even after you stop the water, hidden moisture can cause major problems. Water seeps into walls, floors, and subfloors, leading to structural damage and mold growth within days. Local water damage pros have the equipment to dry these areas thoroughly. In a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and spring hailstorms, fast drying is critical to prevent secondary damage.

• Water has soaked into drywall, insulation, or wooden structural elements.
• You notice a musty odor, which can indicate hidden moisture.
• The affected area is larger than a few square feet.
• Carpet or padding is thoroughly saturated and cannot dry quickly.
• Water has entered HVAC ducts or a closed crawlspace.
• You are concerned about electrical safety or potential mold.