Almost every home, apartment and business has a shut-off valve somewhere inside the building. In an emergency, it is important that you know where your shut-off valve is located. You do not want to search for the master valve if the basement is flooding or carpets are being soaked.

The most likely location for the shut-off valve is where the water supply line enters the building. It might also be near the water heater or clothes washers. Once you have found the shut-off valve, mark it with a tag or bright paint. Also, be sure it can be turned on by hand. If not, keep a wrench nearby.

If you cannot locate your shut-off valve or it is necessary to shut the water off at the water meter, call the District office (day or night) for a customer service representative to shut off the water at the meter.