Where your stopcock usually is, how to turn it off and what to do if it is stuck. Know it before an emergency. Call 020 8050 9933.
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Your stopcock turns off the water to the whole property. Knowing where it is, and that it works, can save you hours of flooding in a leak or burst pipe.
It is usually where the water supply enters the home. Common places are under the kitchen sink, in a utility room, cupboard, hallway, garage or basement. In flats it may be shared or in a communal area, so ask your landlord or managing agent.
Turn the handle clockwise until it stops. Once closed, open the cold kitchen tap to confirm the water has stopped and to drain what is left in the pipes.
A stopcock that is rarely used can seize. Do not force it with a tool or you may break it. Try moving it gently each way. If it will not turn, a plumber can free or replace it.
Close and open the stopcock once a year to keep it free. Check for leaks around the spindle afterwards. A small amount of lubricant may help, but follow the manufacturer's advice.
Sinks, toilets, washing machines and radiators often have their own small isolation valves. These let you stop one fixture without shutting off the whole house. Knowing where they are helps with small leaks.
Check under the kitchen sink, then near the front door and in cupboards. A plumber can help locate it, or you can turn off the supply at the street stop tap if you have the key and know where it is.
A plumber can replace a seized or leaking stopcock. Call 020 8050 9933. A call-out fee applies, shown before you pay.
Turn off the stopcock first, then follow the steps in our burst pipe guide.