Why do this before something breaks
In a 1960s or 1970s ranch, shutoffs sit in places that made sense to a builder fifty years ago: a basement corner behind a stack of boxes, a crawl space hatch, a utility closet, or beside the water heater. Valves that have not been turned in decades can seize, and a stuck valve is a poor discovery during a flood. Walking through the house and testing each valve gently now means you know the location, the direction it turns and whether it moves.
Print or copy the lists below, write the answers and tape a copy inside a cabinet door or near the electrical panel.
Valves and switches to find and label
Mark each one with a tag and note its location in the table that follows.
- Main water shutoff where the line enters the house, and the meter location if it is separate.
- Water heater cold-water inlet valve and, for gas heaters, the gas valve.
- Shutoff valves under each kitchen and bathroom sink.
- Toilet supply valves behind each toilet.
- Washing machine hot and cold valves.
- Outdoor hose bib shutoffs and any interior valve for them.
- The electrical panel and the breaker that controls the basement or laundry area.
- The gas meter shutoff, noted for emergencies only.
Worksheet table
- Item
- Main water shutoff
- Location in house
- Turns which way to close
- Tested and moves?
- Date checked
- Item
- Water heater inlet valve
- Location in house
- Turns which way to close
- Tested and moves?
- Date checked
- Item
- Kitchen sink valves
- Location in house
- Turns which way to close
- Tested and moves?
- Date checked
- Item
- Washer valves
- Location in house
- Turns which way to close
- Tested and moves?
- Date checked
- Item
- Hose bib interior valve
- Location in house
- Turns which way to close
- Tested and moves?
- Date checked
- Item
- Electrical panel
- Location in house
- Turns which way to close
- Tested and moves?
- Date checked
Copy this into your own notes and fill in each row.
Questions to answer once the worksheet is complete
- Can everyone in the household reach the main shutoff without moving anything heavy?
- Does a second shutoff exist at the street, and who is allowed to operate it?
- Is there a sheet of paper or a tag near the shutoff showing the direction to close it?
- Do we know where the sump pump or floor drain is located?
- Are there any valves that look corroded or are leaking slightly?
Common questions
Where is the street shutoff?
A curb stop sits near the property line. It usually needs a special key, and your city or water utility sets the rules for who may use it. Ask the utility.
Should I shut off power as well?
Only if it is safe to reach the panel from a dry spot. If water is near outlets or the panel itself, call the utility or emergency services.
General information for Northglenn, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.