Emergency guide
Where is my main water shut-off valve?
Short answer: in most Toronto houses it is in the basement, on the wall facing the street, where the water pipe comes through the foundation, right next to the water meter. Turn it clockwise to close.
Where to look
Where do Toronto homes usually hide the shut-off?
Basement, front wall
Most detached and semi-detached homes: where the service line enters, next to the meter.
Under the basement stairs
Common in older semis and row houses when the front wall is finished.
Utility or furnace room
Newer builds often route the main line into the mechanical room.
Behind an access panel
In finished basements look for a small removable panel on the front wall.
Condos and townhouses
Usually in the laundry closet, under the kitchen sink or near the water heater.
Outside at the curb
The City curb stop. Only Toronto Water should operate it.
Do it today
How do you test your shut-off valve before an emergency?
Close it fully, open a tap on the top floor and check the water stops within a minute. Then open the valve again slowly. Put a tag on it so everyone in the house can find it. If it is stiff, leaks at the stem or does not fully stop the water, book a replacement before you need it.
FAQ
Common questions
Which way do I turn the main water valve?
Clockwise to close, like tightening a jar lid. A round wheel valve takes several turns. A lever valve closes with a quarter turn so the handle sits across the pipe.
The valve will not turn. What now?
Do not force it with a wrench, old valves can snap. Call a plumber. In an emergency, Toronto Water (311) can shut off water at the curb stop outside.
Should I replace an old shut-off valve?
If it is a stiff gate valve older than 20 years, yes. A quarter-turn ball valve costs a few hundred dollars to install and closes in one second when it matters.
Cannot find it or it will not close?
Call us. We talk you through it on the phone or send the nearest truck.