Almost every home has a main cut off valve to turn water off to your home. Your main cut off valve should be on the same side of the home as your water meter. In some cases, it is located within the home behind a covered panel opening. In an emergency, such as a broken line, use this valve to shut off the water to the home. If there is an emergency, you will need to act fast. It is a very good idea to locate your valve now so you can find it quickly in the event of an emergency. Be sure you have found the correct valve. Try turning it off briefly and see if all the water is off. If the valve is not working, contact a plumber to repair or replace it. Maintenance of the main cut off valve is the owner’s responsibility. Do not depend on the water meter valve to shut off your water. It can be easily broken, or seized. In most cases it requires a special wrench to turn. The meter is for District use ONLY. You could be charged a tamper fine for turning on or off the meter valve.
