How to Find the Main Utility Access Points in Your Home

Most people don't know how to locate their main utility shutoffs, but it's one of the most important things you can know about your home. These main utilities can include water, electricity, and sometimes gas.

You can save thousands of dollars in damage costs if you know how to stop a flood or a gas leak. For example, It's essential to understand how to mitigate utility damage to save on repairs.

All homes are made differently, and some utility turnoffs can be tricky to find. As a property management company, we always recommend that new owners of a lease or home request a property tour by a property manager or hire a home inspector to educate them on the components of the home.

If you'd find them on your own, we have listed where you can locate the three most common main utilities shutoffs below and a free printable identification tag so everyone in your home knows where to find it!

Main Water Shutoff Valve

Most main water shut-off valves are found on the lowest level of your home on an exterior wall that’s closest to the street. Also commonly found close to the water heater and/or washer and dryer hookups. You will notice a water pipe that exits on the home's exterior.

Pro-Tip: Tie a bright ribbon or hang an identification tag to the main water shut-off. This will help household members or service personnel access the home's main water quickly, especially if yours is in a tight spot.

Also, every appliance and bathroom/kitchen fixture that uses running water will have its own shutoff valve on the appliance or fixture. Underneath sinks, you can find a shutoff valve to turn off the water directly to the sink. And on the back side of your toilets, you'll also find a shut-off valve.

Pro-tip: Be in the habit of making sure water successfully recedes after flushing. If water begins to rise in the case of a clog, you can quickly turn off the water, avoiding contaminated overflow. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to do this! Especially children who are old enough to use the bathroom on their own.

If you need help with where a leak is coming from, or there is rushing water flooding your home, utilize your main water shut-off valve and call your property management company or plumber immediately. If the situation is dangerous (e.g. it involves “fire, flood, or blood”), always call 911.