Curb Stop & Meter Valve Problems

A residential water meter and shutoff valve behind an access panel

This hub covers problems around the utility-side shutoff (curb stop) and the meter valve—partial shutoffs, leaks after city work, a box full of water, and pressure changes after the valve is used.

It also includes confusing cases where the city shuts water off but the home still shows pressure, or the meter appears to move when nothing is running. Use the groups below to match your symptom and open the most relevant article.

Curb stop won’t shut off or can’t be used

Problems that prevent the curb stop from being operated or fully closing, including access and environmental issues.

  • Curb stop won’t fully shut off water

    Explains common causes of a curb stop that leaves water flowing and steps to confirm whether the curb stop or another valve is at fault.

  • Curb stop frozen underground

    Describes how frost and cold soil can freeze a stop, signs to look for, and safe approaches to thawing or reporting the issue.

  • Curb stop location unknown

    Guidance for locating a hidden or unmarked curb box using property records, common placement patterns, and noninvasive search tips.

  • Curb stop access cover missing or damaged

    Covers risks and temporary measures when the curb box cover is gone or broken, plus how to secure safe access until repairs occur.

Meter valve leaks and handle problems

Issues at the meter or valve body that appear after turning the valve or following municipal work.

  • Meter valve leaking after city repair

    Outlines why leaks show up after repairs, how to verify the source, and what to document before contacting the utility or plumber.

  • Water meter leaking after turn-on

    Describes leaks that begin when water is restored, common failure points at the meter, and short-term containment options.

  • Meter valve handle broken

    Explains how a broken handle affects operation, safe ways to operate the valve without the handle, and replacement considerations.

  • Meter valve stuck open

    Notes reasons a meter valve can’t be closed, diagnostic checks to confirm the condition, and next steps for isolation or replacement.

  • Meter valve squeals under load

    Identifies causes of squealing or high-frequency noise at the valve when water flows and possible fixes or adjustments.

Pressure or banging after curb stop use

Reduced pressure, surges, or water hammer that begin after the curb stop is used or after service has been restored.

Water in the curb box and warning signs

When you find standing water or other signs that the curb stop area is compromised.

  • Curb stop box full of water

    Discusses causes of a flooded curb box, potential risks to the stop and meter, and immediate actions to protect the line.

  • Curb stop failure warning signs

    Lists visible and functional indicators of imminent curb stop or service line failure to help prioritize inspection or reporting.

Odd pressure/air and meter behavior

Unusual signs such as retained pressure, air in the system, or the meter turning when no fixtures are on.

For broader context on shutoffs, meters, and flow control systems see the related sub-category hub: Water Entry, Shutoffs & Flow Control Systems.

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