The one-afternoon walk-through
Find and test the main shutoff
Close it fully, check that the water stops, then reopen it. If it sticks or leaks, plan to have it replaced.
Check every fixture valve
Toilets, sinks, the dishwasher, the washer and the refrigerator line. Turn each one gently to make sure it moves.
Inspect the water heater
Look for rust, drips and a working drain pan. Confirm it is seismically strapped, as California requires.
Locate the cleanout
Find the sewer cleanout cap outside. If you cannot find one, ask a plumber on your next routine visit.
Find the gas meter and know the rule
Know where the gas meter is, but if you ever smell gas, leave first and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
A small emergency kit
Who to contact for what
| Situation | Who to contact |
|---|---|
| Gas smell | 911 or SoCalGas, from outside |
| Outage or leak at the meter or street | The city of Fullerton's water utility |
| Leak, backup or failure inside your property | A licensed plumber you have checked at cslb.ca.gov |
| Water near electrical panels or wiring | Stay clear; an electrician after the water is stopped |
| Damage claim | Your insurer |
Small upgrades worth considering
Some homeowners replace rubber washing machine hoses with braided stainless ones, and swap an old gate valve at the main for a quarter-turn ball valve that is easier to close in a hurry. Others add a water leak sensor under sinks and near the water heater.
In an older Fullerton home, a routine camera inspection of the sewer lateral can show root intrusion before it becomes a backup. None of this is required, but each one makes the bad night shorter.
Common questions
How often should I test the main shutoff?
Once a year is a common habit. The goal is simply to know it still works.
Do I need a plumber to check my water heater strapping?
You can look for the straps yourself. If they are missing or loose, a licensed plumber can install them properly.
Are leak sensors worth it?
They can give early warning of a slow leak under a sink or near a water heater. They do not replace knowing where your shutoff is.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.