Where to look
The City of Bellevue's guidance says the shut-off valve "is commonly located in the basement, garage or outdoor by the foundation, often near the front faucet." Every house is different, so check the basement, the garage and the outside of the foundation, then find yours and make a note of it.
Why it matters
The city says that if a pipe breaks, turning off the water can limit water loss and flooding. That is the whole job of the valve, and it only helps if you reach it quickly.
The meter valve
If the main valve is missing or doesn't work, Bellevue says the valve at the water meter can be used in an emergency. It is turned with a crescent wrench or a meter valve key, which hardware stores sell. To close it, the city says to "turn the valve clockwise." Rules about who may touch the meter vary, so ask your water utility before you rely on this.
If you don't have a working main valve
The city advises having a main valve installed or repaired if your property lacks one or it is broken. That is a plumbing job. We can send a licensed partner to do it.
Do this today
- Find the valve and make sure it isn't blocked by storage.
- Show everyone in the household where it is. Tenants should know too, if you are a landlord.
- If it is stiff, corroded or won't turn, call a plumber rather than forcing it.
Sources
Every figure above comes from one of these. Where they disagree, the post says so rather than averaging them into a single number.