How to Turn Off Your Water in an Emergency

When a leak or burst pipe happens, every second counts. Knowing how to turn off your water quickly can save your property from major damage  and save you money on repairs. Here’s a simple guide from DM Emergency Plumbing to help you act fast.

1. Locate Your Stop Tap (Main Water Valve)

Your stop tap also called a stopcock  is usually found:

• Under the kitchen sink
• In a utility room or cupboard
• Near where the water pipe enters your home (often on the ground floor)

If you can’t find it indoors, check outside your home near the water meter.
There’s usually a small metal or plastic cover in the pavement marked Water.
Lift the lid carefully, and you’ll find an external stopcock next to the meter.
You can use a stop tap key (available at most DIY stores) to turn it clockwise and shut off the water supply from outside your property.

2. Turn the Valve Clockwise

To shut off the water:

• Turn the stop tap clockwise until it stops (righty-tighty).
• Don’t force it if it’s stiff, use a cloth or gently tap it to loosen.

This stops water from flowing into your property.

3. Drain the Remaining Water

Even after turning off the main supply, there will still be water in your pipes.

• Turn on your cold taps until no water comes out.
• If you suspect a boiler or heating leak, switch off your heating system too.

4. Call a Professional

Once the water is off, it’s time to get help.
DM Emergency Plumbing is available 24/7 for leaks, burst pipes, boiler issues, and all emergency plumbing jobs across Northampton and surrounding areas.

📞 Call us now — we’ll respond quickly and get you back up and running safely.

Quick Tip

Make sure everyone in your household knows where both the internal and external stopcocks are located and how to use them.
This simple knowledge could save you from serious water damage in the future.

Need help with a leak or plumbing emergency?
👉 Contact DM Emergency Plumbing today — we’re on call 24/7.