How Do I Shut Off the Water to My House

Knowing how to shut off the water to your house is essential for every homeowner and tenant. Whether you are dealing with a burst pipe, a leaking tap or planning plumbing work, turning off the water supply quickly and safely can prevent costly damage and disruption. Despite its importance, many people do not know where their stop tap is or how to operate it when an emergency arises.

This guide explains how to locate and operate the main stop tap, when you should use it, what precautions to take, and how to ensure your home’s water supply is well managed. It is written for homeowners, tenants, landlords and self-builders who need clear, practical advice based on UK plumbing standards and home maintenance practice.

What Is a Stop Tap and What Does It Do?

The stop tap, also known as the stop valve or stopcock, is a control valve that allows you to shut off the incoming mains water supply to your home. It is a vital part of your plumbing system and is usually installed on the water main where it enters the house. By turning the valve clockwise, you close it and stop water from flowing into the property. Turning it anti-clockwise opens the valve and restores the supply.

There are usually two stop taps associated with every property: one internal, typically found under the kitchen sink or in a utility cupboard, and one external, which may be located outside in the pavement or driveway beneath a small metal or plastic cover.

When Should You Shut Off the Water?

You should shut off the water in several situations. If a pipe bursts or a tap starts leaking uncontrollably, turning off the water quickly can prevent flooding and water damage. It is also essential to shut off the supply before carrying out plumbing repairs, replacing radiators or installing new kitchen or bathroom fittings.

In addition, turning off the water may be advisable if you are leaving the property empty during winter, as frozen pipes can burst if water remains in the system. In a newly purchased property, it is important to locate and test the stop tap early so you are prepared if a problem occurs.

How to Locate Your Stop Tap

The internal stop tap is usually found close to where the water enters the house. Common locations include under the kitchen sink, inside a downstairs bathroom or in a utility room or cellar. In flats, it may be found in a communal area, meter cupboard or service riser.

The external stop tap, used mainly by the water company, is found in the street near your property. It is typically under a small cover labelled 'water' or 'stopcock'. You may need a special tool called a stopcock key to operate it, though it is best to leave external stop taps to professionals unless instructed otherwise.

Once you find your internal stop tap, turn it gently clockwise to shut off the supply. Do not force it, especially if it has not been used in a long time, as this could cause it to seize or break.

Testing and Maintaining the Stop Tap

It is good practice to test your stop tap every six months to ensure it works smoothly. Turn it off, check that the water has stopped flowing from taps, then turn it back on and ensure the flow resumes. If the tap is stiff, corroded or leaking, you may need to call a plumber to repair or replace it.

Keep the area around the stop tap clear and accessible so you can reach it quickly in an emergency. Label it if needed, especially in rental properties, so that tenants know where it is located.

Alternative Isolation Valves

Modern homes often include additional isolation valves on individual plumbing fixtures such as toilets, sinks or appliances. These can be turned off without shutting off the entire supply. They are useful for carrying out minor repairs or maintenance without disrupting the rest of the household’s water use.

However, in emergencies or for major work, the main stop tap is the most reliable way to cut off the water completely.

Case Example

A family in Southampton noticed water seeping from under the kitchen floor one morning. Unsure where the leak was coming from, they located the stop tap under the sink and turned it off. This quick action stopped the flow and prevented serious damage to the wooden floor. A plumber was able to trace the leak to a cracked pipe and carry out a repair that same day. Without shutting off the water, the damage could have cost thousands.

Conclusion

Knowing how to shut off the water to your house is a simple but essential skill that every property owner and tenant should have. By locating and maintaining your stop tap, testing it regularly and using it correctly in emergencies, you can avoid serious water damage and carry out repairs safely. If in doubt, consult a qualified plumber and make sure everyone in the household knows where the stop tap is and how to use it. Being prepared could save you time, money and a great deal of stress.