When emergencies strike your home, seconds matter. A burst pipe flooding your basement, an electrical fire starting in a wall, or a gas leak threatening your family’s safety—these disasters require immediate action, and that action depends on knowing exactly where your home’s main controls are located and how to operate them quickly.
Your main water shut-off valve can stop thousands of gallons from flooding your home when pipes burst or fixtures fail catastrophically. But if you don’t know where it is or how to turn it off, that burst pipe will continue dumping water into your house while you frantically search for help. Most main water valves are located where the service line enters your home, often near the water meter or in basements, but every house is different.
The main electrical disconnect gives you the power to cut electricity to your entire home during electrical emergencies. Whether it’s sparks from damaged wiring, flooding that threatens electrical systems, or the need to safely work on electrical components, knowing how to shut off your home’s power can prevent electrocution and fires.
Gas shut-off valves control one of the most dangerous utilities entering your home. Natural gas leaks can create explosive conditions that threaten entire neighborhoods. The main gas valve, typically located at your meter, requires a wrench to operate and should only be turned off during genuine emergencies—but you need to know where it is before you smell gas. And each gas-fired appliance in your house should have a gas shut-off valve that’s readily accessible to you.
Service switches for HVAC systems, water heaters, and other major appliances give you control over individual systems without affecting your entire home. These switches are often located in unexpected places that only become obvious during emergencies.
Home inspectors identify and document these critical controls during every inspection, creating a roadmap for homeowners to reference during emergencies. A qualified inspector will show you where these controls are located and explain how to operate them safely.
The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) trains inspectors to locate and explain all critical home controls.
For a professional inspection of your main shut off valves and switches, and an overall home maintenance check, contact your local InterNACHI® certified home inspector.
Knowing where your home’s controls are located isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for protecting your family and property when emergencies happen.
