How to use this worksheet
Walk the house and yard with a flashlight and a phone. For each valve, write where it is in words a guest could follow, such as 'left of the front hose bib, behind the rose bush', and take a photo. Try each water valve gently to see whether it turns.
Gas valves are listed so you know where they are, not so you can work on them. If you ever smell gas, leave the house and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside rather than going looking for a valve.
Main water and meter
| Valve | Location | Type (wheel or lever) | Turns freely? |
|---|---|---|---|
| House main shutoff | |||
| Meter box at the curb | |||
| Irrigation or sprinkler valve | |||
| Second shutoff (garage or attic), if any |
Fixture and appliance valves
| Fixture | Room | Valve found? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen sink (hot and cold) | |||
| Dishwasher | |||
| Refrigerator ice maker line | |||
| Each bathroom sink | |||
| Each toilet | |||
| Washing machine (hot and cold) | |||
| Water heater cold inlet |
Gas locations (for reference only)
| Item | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas meter | SoCalGas equipment; do not adjust except in an emergency you are trained for | |
| Water heater gas valve | ||
| Furnace | ||
| Range or cooktop | ||
| Dryer | ||
| Outdoor barbecue or fire feature |
Finishing the map
- Sketch the floor plan.A rough box drawing of the house with an X at each main valve is enough. Mark north or the street side so it is easy to read.
- Add photos.Print a few close-ups of the hardest-to-find valves, especially the meter box and the house main.
- Note what needs fixing.Any valve that is seized, leaking at the stem or missing is worth having a licensed plumber replace before it is needed.
- Post copies.Keep one in the garage, one in a kitchen drawer and a photo on each adult's phone.
Contacts to write on the back
- Water utility number from your water bill.
- SoCalGas emergency number.
- Your insurance company's claims line and policy number.
- A licensed plumber you have already checked at cslb.ca.gov.
- HOA or property manager, if you have one.
Common questions
How often should I update the map?
Whenever a fixture, appliance or water heater is replaced, and at least once a year when you test the main valve.
What if I cannot find the main shutoff?
Check where the supply pipe enters the house, often near the front hose bib or in the garage. A licensed plumber can locate it and add an accessible valve if needed.
Should I test the gas shutoff?
No. Leave gas valves alone unless there is an emergency and you know what you are doing. Note where they are for reference.
General information for La Habra, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.