DIY guideMain water shutoff

Water you can't stop: the first minutes

Stay clear of anything electrical, close the nearest valve or the main, then catch the water, move things and take photos.

6 steps

Tap a step to watch it again.

If the water is near outlets, cords or anything plugged in, stay out of it and keep everyone back.
Never step into water that could touch an outlet or a cord.
If it's coming from one fixture or machine, turn the valve under or behind it clockwise, all the way.
Turn it by hand. If it won't turn, go straight to the main.
Can't find a valve, or it's still running? Turn off the main valve where the water comes into the house.
Put buckets under the drips and towels on the floor. Move what you can out of the water's way.
Leave anything heavy, and anything plugged in.
Photograph the water, the damage and where it came from, before you clean up. Your insurer will want them.
With the water off, ask Handyman for a plumber. If anything got damaged, call your insurer too.

Water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel: keep out and call an electrician
The main won't close, or water still runs after it's closed: call your water utility
Water came through a ceiling or flooded a floor: call a plumber, then your insurer

Handyman says: Water off? I'll find you a plumber now.

Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.