How to use this worksheet
Walk the house with a flashlight, a pen and this page. For each valve, note where it is, what kind of handle it has and whether it actually turned when you tried it. Draw a rough floor plan on the back if that helps.
Do the water valves yourself. For gas, simply note where the meter and appliance valves are so you can tell the fire department or SoCalGas. If you ever smell gas, the plan is to leave and call from outside, not to go hunting for a valve.
Water shutoffs
| Valve | Location | Handle type | Tested and working? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main house valve | Lever / wheel | Yes / No / Stiff | |
| Meter valve (curb box) | Needs meter key / wrench | Yes / No | |
| Pressure regulator | n/a | Present? Yes / No | |
| Water heater cold supply | Lever / wheel | Yes / No | |
| Kitchen sink (hot and cold) | Oval / round | Yes / No | |
| Dishwasher | Usually under kitchen sink | Yes / No | |
| Washing machine (hot and cold) | Lever / wheel | Yes / No | |
| Each toilet | Oval / round | Yes / No | |
| Each bathroom sink | Oval / round | Yes / No | |
| Irrigation / outside lines | Lever / wheel | Yes / No |
Gas and drain points to note
| Item | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas meter | Tell responders where it is; do not stay inside to use it if you smell gas | |
| Water heater gas control | On the unit itself | |
| Stove / dryer gas valve | Behind the appliance | |
| Outside sewer cleanout | Capped pipe near the foundation or property line | |
| Electrical panel | Breakers for water heater and wet areas |
Testing a valve without breaking it
Turn gently
Use hand pressure first. Old gate valves on 1950s-70s houses can snap if forced with a long wrench.
Close fully, then reopen
Turn until it stops, check a faucet to confirm the water stopped, then open it back up all the way.
Watch for drips
A valve that leaks at the stem after being turned may need repacking or replacing.
Mark the result
Write 'stiff' or 'failed' next to any valve that did not work and plan to have it replaced.
Once the map is done
- Tag the main valve with a bright label.
- Keep a meter key or adjustable wrench next to the map.
- Show every adult and teen in the house where the main is.
- Leave a copy for house sitters, tenants or caregivers.
- Add the City of Anaheim water utility and SoCalGas contact details at the bottom.
- Re-check the map after any remodel or plumbing work.
Common questions
What if I cannot find a house valve at all?
Some older homes only have the meter valve at the curb. Note that on the map and ask a plumber whether adding a house valve makes sense.
Should I test the meter valve too?
Gently, yes. If it is damaged or leaks, contact the City of Anaheim water utility, since the meter belongs to the city system.
How often should I update the map?
Check it once a year and after any plumbing work that adds or moves valves.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.