In a typical Cypress tract home, the main water shutoff is often near where the supply line enters the house, sometimes near a front hose bib or in a garage, and the sewer cleanout is often near the foundation or in the front yard. But every house is different, and remodels, landscaping and decades of repainting hide things. The only reliable map is one you make yourself.
Walk the house and yard with this page, a pencil and a phone camera. Draw a rough outline of the home, mark each item, and photograph it. Keep the page with your home documents and a copy where others in the household can find it.
Locations worksheet
| Item | Where it is | How to operate it | Photo taken? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main water shutoff | |||
| Water meter | |||
| Sewer cleanout (main) | |||
| Second cleanout near street, if any | |||
| Kitchen sink supply valves | |||
| Toilet supply valves (each bathroom) | |||
| Washer supply valves | |||
| Water heater shutoff | |||
| Gas meter and shutoff | |||
| Breaker panel |
Mapping walk-through
- Start at the street.Find the water meter, often in a box near the sidewalk, and note whether a second sewer cleanout is near the property line.
- Follow the supply in.Trace toward the house to the main shutoff. Note whether it is a gate valve (round handle) or a ball valve (lever).
- Circle the foundation.Look along the walls nearest the bathrooms for the capped sewer cleanout. Check under shrubs and mulch.
- Go room by room.Note each fixture's supply valves under sinks and behind toilets.
- Finish in the garage or utility area.Record the water heater, washer valves and breaker panel.
Test, gently
Ask a plumber on the next visit
- Is my main shutoff in good condition, or should it be replaced?
- Is my cleanout accessible and the right type for main-line cleaning?
- Are any fixture valves likely to fail if I turn them?
Common questions
What if my main shutoff will not turn?
Do not force it. Old valves can break. Have a plumber assess it, and in an emergency contact your water provider about shutting water off at the meter.
Who is my water provider?
It is listed on your water bill. Check with them about meter access rules.
Do I need to know where the cleanout is?
It helps a lot. Plumbers use it to clear the main line without pulling a toilet.
General information for Cypress, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.