• What to Do Immediately After You Shut Off Water to Your House

    What to Do Immediately After You Shut Off Water to Your House

    Short answer:
    After shutting off water to your house, check that the valve is fully closed, relieve pressure by opening faucets, identify the source of the problem, and protect nearby areas from water damage. Acting quickly can prevent additional leaks and costly repairs.

    Why this matters

    Shutting off the water stops active damage, but it doesn’t automatically make the situation safe. Water trapped in pipes can still leak, pressure can remain in the system, and hidden damage can worsen if the next steps aren’t handled correctly.

    Taking a few minutes to do the right things immediately can limit damage and make repairs much easier.

    Step-by-step: what to do after shutting off the water

    1. Confirm the water is fully shut off

    Once you turn the main valve off, test a faucet:

    • Turn on a sink or tub
    • Water should stop flowing after a few seconds

    If water continues to run, the valve may not be fully closed or could be faulty. If you’re unsure how to locate or operate the valve, review how to shut off water to your house to confirm you used the correct shutoff.

    2. Open faucets to relieve pressure

    After confirming the water is off:

    • Open the lowest faucet in the house
    • Then open one or two higher faucets

    This relieves pressure and drains remaining water from the pipes, reducing the risk of additional leaks.

    3. Identify the source of the problem

    Try to determine why the water needed to be shut off:

    • Burst or leaking pipe
    • Overflowing toilet
    • Leaking appliance or water heater
    • Frozen plumbing

    Knowing the source helps you decide whether this is a DIY fix or something that requires a professional.

    4. Contain any existing water

    If water has already leaked:

    • Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum
    • Move valuables away from wet areas
    • Place a bucket under active drips

    Even small amounts of standing water can cause damage if left alone.

    5. Turn off electricity if necessary

    If water is near:

    • Electrical outlets
    • Appliances
    • Breaker panels

    Shut off power to the affected area if it’s safe to do so. Water and electricity together can be dangerous.

    6. Decide your next move before turning the water back on

    Before restoring water:

    • Make sure repairs are complete
    • Inspect the affected area
    • Be prepared to watch for leaks

    When it’s time, follow a safe process for restoring service by reviewing how to turn water back on after shutting it off safely.

    What not to do

    • Don’t immediately turn the water back on
    • Don’t ignore slow drips or damp areas
    • Don’t assume the problem fixed itself
    • Don’t leave the house without checking for leaks

    Rushing this step is one of the most common causes of repeat water damage.

    When to call a professional

    Call a plumber if:

    • You can’t locate the source of the leak
    • The shutoff valve doesn’t fully stop water
    • Pipes are cracked, frozen, or damaged
    • You’re unsure how to make a safe repair

    If water damage is extensive, a restoration professional may also be needed.

    Safety notes

    • Wear gloves if dealing with dirty or contaminated water
    • Be cautious around slippery surfaces
    • Avoid standing water near electrical sources
    • If mold or sewage is present, stop and call a professional

    Frequently asked questions

    Should I leave faucets open after shutting off water?

    Yes. Opening faucets relieves pressure and allows remaining water to drain from the system.

    How long can I leave water shut off?

    Water can remain shut off as long as needed for repairs. Just be sure to protect pipes from freezing in cold weather.

    Can water still leak after I shut it off?

    Yes. Residual water in pipes can continue leaking briefly, which is why relieving pressure is important.