Tools
- Water meter key or a large adjustable wrench for the curb valve.
- Medium adjustable wrench and channel-lock pliers.
- Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries.
- Flange plunger for toilets and a cup plunger for sinks.
- Closet auger for toilet clogs.
- Screwdriver set.
- Pipe repair clamp or self-fusing silicone tape for temporary patches on exposed pipe.
Cleanup and protection
- Two or three buckets.
- Old towels and a few large trash bags.
- Rubber or nitrile gloves.
- Rubber boots for any sewage situation.
- Disinfectant cleaner.
- A tarp or plastic sheeting to protect furniture.
Contact card
| Who | When to use | Number or link |
|---|---|---|
| 911 | Gas smell, fire, electrical danger, injury | 911 |
| SoCalGas | Gas smell (call from outside) or gas service questions | |
| City of Anaheim water utility | Leak at or before the meter, outages | |
| City sewer department | Suspected public sewer problem | |
| Licensed plumber you have checked | Leaks and backups on your side | |
| Insurance claims line | Water damage | |
| Landlord or HOA | Renters and condo owners |
Where to keep it
In most Anaheim tract homes the main shutoff is near the front of the house or in the garage, so a garage shelf close to that wall is a good spot. Keep the shutoff map from the worksheet in the same bin.
Make sure it stays a kit. Borrowed wrenches and flashlights have a way of never coming back, so check it twice a year and restock anything missing.
Twice-a-year kit check
Open and count
Compare the contents to this list and replace anything missing.
Test the light
Swap the batteries if the flashlight is dim.
Update the card
Make sure numbers are current, including a plumber whose license you checked at cslb.ca.gov.
Common questions
Do I really need a meter key?
If your house valve is seized or missing, the meter valve may be your only shutoff. A meter key or large wrench makes that much easier.
Are pipe clamps safe to leave on?
They are a stopgap. Have the pipe properly repaired soon after.
Should renters keep a kit?
A smaller one helps: towels, buckets, gloves, a flashlight and the landlord's after-hours contact.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.