How do I shut off the main water supply to my house?
By the Drain Guru team · Updated September 27, 2026
Quick answer
The main shutoff is usually where the water line enters the house: in the basement, crawl space, utility room, garage, or near the water heater. In warm climates it may be outside. Turn a round wheel handle clockwise until it stops; turn a lever handle a quarter turn so it sits across the pipe. Find and test yours now, before you need it.
Where to look
- Basement or crawl space wall facing the street
- Utility room, near the water heater or water softener
- Garage, or a cupboard under the kitchen sink in some homes
- Outside, on an exterior wall or in a ground box near the meter (warm climates)
How to close it
- Gate valve (round wheel): turn clockwise until snug. Don't force it. Old gate valves can break.
- Ball valve (lever): a quarter turn so the lever is perpendicular to the pipe means closed.
Do this today
- Find the valve and tag it with a bright label.
- Test it: close it and check that a faucet stops running.
- Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is.
The valve in the ground box at the street (curb stop) usually belongs to the water utility and needs a special key. Use your house valve first.
More questions
My main valve won't turn. What now?
Don't force it with a wrench. You can break it and create a bigger leak. Call your water utility to shut off at the curb, and have a plumber replace the valve.
Related answers
General information only. Plumbing codes, prices and landlord-tenant laws vary by location. For gas, electrical, sewer-line or structural problems, contact a licensed professional.