Emergency Water Shutoff Guide for Homeowners [2025]

How to Prevent Thousands in Water Damage—One Valve at a Time

Introduction: Why This Guide Matters

Water damage is the second most common homeowners insurance claim in the U.S. (Source: III.org). And yet—.

In our 30+ years restoring water-damaged homes, we’ve seen avoidable flooding destroy basements, rot out walls, and rack up $20K+ in losses. The difference between a dry floor and a disaster? Often just knowing where to turn a valve.

This guide gives you step-by-step, expert-backed instructions to shut off water—fast—at every key point in your home.

Part 1: The Main Water Shutoff Valve (Whole House)

Where It’s Located

• In colder climates: typically in the basement or lowest level, on a wall near the front foundation.
• In warmer regions: may be outside near the street or meter box.
• Some homes have a meter valve and a house valve — know both.

How to Shut It Off

• Turn the valve clockwise (right) until it stops.
• If it’s a lever handle, turn it so it’s perpendicular to the pipe.
• For gate valves (round), turn clockwise multiple turns.

When to Use It

• Burst pipes
• Overflowing appliances
• Major plumbing leak
• Going out of town (prevent frozen pipes or unnoticed leaks

Pro Tip from the Field:Label the main shutoff with fluorescent tape. During a panic, this saves crucial seconds.

Part 2: Appliance-Specific Shutoff Valves

Toilets

• Valve is behind the toilet near the floor.
• Turn clockwise to shut off.
• Use during overflow, stuck float, or tank leak.

Technician Insight:Over 25% of bathroom water losses we’ve responded to started with a failed toilet valve or supply line—cheap parts that fail fast.

Sinks (Kitchen & Bathroom)

• Typically under the sink—hot and cold valves on the supply lines.
• Turn both clockwise to shut off water completely.

Washing Machines

• Look behind the unit: you’ll see two valves, often marked red (hot) and blue (cold).
• Turn both clockwise. If it’s a single lever, turn it perpendicular to the pipes.

Warning:Burst washing machine hoses are one of the top causes of non-weather water damage, especially in second-floor laundry rooms

Dishwashers

• Usually under the kitchen sink, sharing the same shutoff as the sink’s hot water.
• If separate, look for a third line/valve under the cabinet.

Refrigerator (Ice Maker/Water Dispenser)

• Valve is often hidden:
  In the basement directly below the fridge
  Behind the fridge
  In adjacent cabinetry
• In the basement directly below the fridge
• Behind the fridge
• In adjacent cabinetry
• Follow the copper or braided water line to its shutoff

Tip:If you're upgrading your fridge, install a quick-access shutoff box with a labeled valve.

Water Heater

• Cold water inlet valve on top of the unit (usually blue handle).
• Turn clockwise to stop cold water from entering the tank.
• For tankless units, look for isolation valves on hot and cold lines.

Emergency Protocol:If your water heater is leaking, shut off water and power/gas immediately. Call a licensed plumber and a water restoration company to assess hidden damage behind walls.

Part 3: Outdoor Water Shutoff Points Hose Bibs / Spigots

• Shut off interior supply valve in winter (often found near the basement ceiling).
• Drain the outdoor line to prevent frozen pipe bursts.

Irrigation Systems

• Main shutoff is near where the system branches from your water supply, often in the basement or garage.
• Also shut down and drain the system before winter.

Part 4: Emergency Shutoff Checklist (Downloadable) Create a laminated version and place it:

• Inside the kitchen cabinet
• Next to the electrical panel
• With your emergency binder

Checklist Includes:

• Valve locations
• Photos of each shutoff point
• Emergency plumber/restoration numbers
• Date last tested
• Notes for renters, Airbnb owners, and new homeowners

Why This Guide Builds Homeowner Confidence You don’t need to be a plumber. You just need to be prepared.Most people panic during a flood or leak. But homeowners who follow this guide are more likely to:

• Prevent catastrophic water damage
• Minimize insurance claims
• Avoid mold growth
• Protect their families and investments

When to Call the Experts

Even if you shut off the water, the damage may already be done.If you see soaked carpets, dripping ceilings, or bulging drywall:

• Call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons at 847-316-9145
• Contact Us Here!
• We respond within 90 minutes or less in Lake, Cook, and DuPage Counties in Illinois
• Our IICRC-certified team will extract, dry, sanitize, and document damage for your insurer

Need help before the damage happens?We offer home preparedness consultations for homeowners, landlords, and property managers.

Final Thoughts

Water is the most destructive force in your home — but also one of the most manageable. Knowing how and when to shut it off is empowering, cost-saving, and potentially lifesaving.

Bookmark this guide. Share it with your neighbors. And reach out if you want a walkthrough of your property’s risk zones.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is a trusted, IICRC-certified disaster restoration firm serving Lake, Cook, and DuPage counties, including Chicago and the North Shore. We specialize in restoring residential and commercial properties affected by water damage, fire and smoke damage, mold, and specialty cleaning needs. As a multi-award-winning, MBE/WBE-certified company, we’re committed to fast response times, expert care, and compassionate service during your time of need.

From emergency water extraction and structural drying to full-service cleanup and reconstruction, we’re here to help you restore peace of mind—24/7.

Written by:Sam Simon, Owner – ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons30 years in disaster restoration, IICRC-Certified Master Restorer, and co-author of “RESTORE: A Complete Guide To Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset”