How to Turn Off the Water in Your Condo Before a Leak Gets Worse

 


Knowing how to turn off the water in your condo can help prevent serious water damage.

When a leak happens, the first few minutes are very important. If you can stop the water quickly and safely, you may be able to reduce damage to your unit, the unit below, and common areas.


1. Look under the sink first.

Many sinks have small shut-off valves under the cabinet.

You may see one valve for cold water and one valve for hot water. In many cases, turning the valve clockwise will shut off the water.

If the leak is coming from the faucet, supply line, or sink area, this is usually the first place to check.


2. Check behind or beside the toilet

If the leak is coming from a toilet, look for a small shut-off valve near the wall or floor behind the toilet.

Turn the valve clockwise until it stops.

This can stop water from continuing to fill the toilet tank.


3. Check the washing machine valves

If the leak is near the laundry area, check the hot and cold water valves behind or beside the washing machine.

Washing machine hoses can leak, crack, or burst over time.

If you see water near the washing machine, shut off both the hot and cold valves if it is safe to do so.


4. Know where your main shut-off valve is

Some condos have a main water shut-off valve inside the unit.

It may be located in a closet, laundry area, mechanical panel, ceiling access panel, or near a manifold system.

Every condo layout is different, so it is a good idea to find this valve before an emergency happens.


5. What is a manifold?

In some newer condos, water may be distributed through a manifold.

A manifold is a plumbing distribution system that sends hot or cold water to different fixtures, such as the sink, toilet, shower, or washing machine.

Some manifold systems allow individual lines to be shut off separately.

If you are not sure which valve controls which fixture, do not guess during an emergency. Contact your strata, property manager, or a professional plumber.


6. Do not touch water near electricity

If water is close to electrical outlets, lights, appliances, or panels, do not touch anything.

Water and electricity can be dangerous together.

Step away and contact building management or a qualified professional.


7. Take photos after the water is shut off

After you stop the water, take photos and videos of the leak, wet floor, walls, ceiling, and any damaged items.

This can help when speaking with your strata, property manager, insurance provider, or plumber.


Final tip:

Do not wait until a leak happens to look for your shut-off valves.


Take a few minutes today to check under your sinks, behind your toilet, near your washing machine, and inside your mechanical or laundry area.


Knowing where your shut-off valves are can save time, stress, and money during a water leak.

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