Why Every Marin County Home Should Have a Main Water Shutoff Valve You Can Find in Under 30 Seconds
Conor Crawford • June 29, 2026
When Every Second Counts
One of the first questions we ask homeowners during a plumbing emergency is:
"Do you know where your main water shutoff valve is?"
Surprisingly, more than half don't.
Whether it's a burst pipe, failed water heater, broken washing machine hose or slab leak, shutting the water off quickly can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.
Where is the Main Shutoff Valve?
Common locations:
- Garage area
- Crawlspace
- Basement
- Near the water meter
- Exterior wall, generally in line with the meter on the side walk
Signs You Should Replace Your Shutoff Valve
- Hard to turn
- Leaking stem
- Corrosion
- Doesn't fully close
- Never exercised
How Often Should You Test It?
Recommend once or twice a year.
Upgrade Options
- Quarter-turn ball valves
- Smart shutoff valves
- FloLogic
- Flo by Moen
Why Local Plumbing Checks Every Shutoff Valve
Every onsite whole home plumbing inspection that we perform includes checking the home's emergency shutoff.
FAQ
- Where is my water shutoff valve?
- Should I replace an old gate valve?
- Can I shut the water off myself?
- Does every house have one?
Need help locating or replacing your main shutoff valve? Local Plumbing serves homeowners throughout Marin and Sonoma Counties with emergency plumbing inspections and shutoff valve upgrades.
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