Main Water Shutoff Valve
The valve that stops all water flow into a home, typically located where the supply line enters the basement, crawlspace, or garage.
Quick answer
Main Water Shutoff Valve: The valve that stops all water flow into a home, typically located where the supply line enters the basement, crawlspace, or garage. Typical cost: $250–$650 to replace a stuck or leaking valve..
Why it matters
Every adult in a home should know where this is and that it works — a stuck valve during a burst pipe can mean $20,000+ in water damage.
Typical cost
$250–$650 to replace a stuck or leaking valve.
Pros
- • Single point of control for emergencies
- • Quarter-turn ball valves last decades
Cons
- • Often seized in older homes from disuse
Common uses
- • Emergency shutoff during burst pipes, appliance install, and travel
Alternatives
Curb-stop at street (utility-only access)
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Frequently asked questions
- How often should I exercise my shutoff?
- Once a year — turn it off and back on to keep it from seizing.
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