Finding the Main Shut-Off Valve in Your Home

It’s important for homeowners to know the location of the main shut-off valve because the water supply will need to be cut off immediately in the event that there’s a plumbing emergency. Otherwise, parts of your home could get flooded. 

How do you find the main shut-off valve in your home? Local plumbing services company A-1 Comfort Care shares some tips in this guide. 

Where the Main Shut-Off Valve Is Definitely Not Located

The main shut-off valve is rarely located at the center of your home or on its upper floors. It’s usually found on the ground floor or at basement level, so it’s safe to rule the previous areas out. The starting point for your search should be near the outer borders of your home. 

Where the Main Shut-Off Valve Is Usually Found

• In homes with basements – The main valve is usually found near the front foundation wall, roughly within three to five feet of the location where the main water line enters.
• In homes with a crawlspace and a basement – In older homes, the main shut-off valve may be located within the crawlspace.
• In homes with a crawlspace but no basement – Check if the valve is near the water heater or under the kitchen sink.

Check the Property Inspection Report

If you still can’t find the main shut-off valve, you can check the property inspection report you received after purchasing your home. The location and a photo of the main shut-off valve should be in the plumbing section of the report. 

If you still can’t find your main shut-off valve, you can ask the contractor from your local plumbing service company the next time they inspect your plumbing. 

If you’re looking for plumbers near you, here’s a vetting tip: the number of years a company has been working in the industry should give you a good idea of their level of expertise. 

A-1 Comfort Care, a company with more than 20 years of experience, offers professional plumbing services. To request free estimate, call us at (732) 578-0379 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Wall and Freehold, NJ, as well as surrounding communities in New Jersey.