How to use this worksheet
Walk the house and yard with this page and a phone camera. For each shutoff, write where it is in words a guest or teenager would understand, take a photo, and note whether it actually turns. In most 1950s to 70s North OC tract homes the main water valve is on the street-side wall where the supply pipe rises out of the ground, the gas meter is on a side or front wall, and the electrical panel is on an exterior wall or in the garage.
Gas is the one exception to the do-it-yourself rule. The point of knowing where the gas meter is, is so you can tell responders. If you smell gas, leave the house and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside rather than going to the meter.
The map
| Shutoff | Where it is | Type of handle | Turns freely? (date tested) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main house water valve | Wheel or lever | ||
| Curb meter valve and meter key location | Needs meter key | ||
| Water heater cold supply | |||
| Irrigation valve or backflow device | |||
| Kitchen sink angle stops | |||
| Each bathroom: sinks and toilets | |||
| Washing machine valves | |||
| Gas meter location (tell responders) | Do not operate if you smell gas | ||
| Electrical panel | Main breaker |
Filling it in
- Start at the street.Find the meter box, lift the lid and note what is inside. Write down which utility's name is on the lid or your bill.
- Find the house valve.Follow the line from the meter toward the house and look where a pipe rises from the soil.
- Work room by room.Every sink, toilet and appliance should have its own stop. Note any that are missing or crusted with scale.
- Test gently.Close and reopen each water valve once. If one sticks or drips, note it for a plumber rather than forcing it.
- Photograph and print.Add the photos to a shared album and keep the printed sheet near the main valve or panel.
Keep with the map
- Meter key for the curb valve
- Flashlight with working batteries
- Adjustable wrench for stiff angle stops
- Water bill showing your utility's name
- A plumber you have already license-checked at cslb.ca.gov
Questions to note for a plumber visit
- Which valves on my map should be replaced?
- Do I have a pressure regulator, and where is it?
- Is there a sewer cleanout, and where?
Common questions
How often should I update the map?
Whenever valves are replaced or you remodel, and a quick check once a year when you test the valves.
What if a fixture has no shutoff?
Note it. Adding angle stops is a small plumbing job and makes future repairs easier.
Should renters fill this in?
Yes, and share it with the landlord. Ask which valves you are allowed to operate.
General information for North Orange County, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.