If water is uncontrolled or approaching electrical equipment, prioritise safety and call a plumber. The guidance below is general and does not replace an inspection.

Start in the most likely places

The internal stop tap is often beneath the kitchen sink, in a utility cupboard, downstairs cloakroom or close to where the mains supply enters the property. Older or converted properties may be different.

  • Use a torch rather than reaching blindly
  • Look for a brass tap on the incoming cold-water pipe
  • Do not force a seized handle

Turn it carefully

If the valve moves freely, turn it clockwise and check whether the active leak slows. Open a cold tap briefly to release pressure after isolation.

  • Stop if the valve body moves or starts leaking
  • Keep water away from electrical fittings
  • Call a plumber if the valve is inaccessible or seized

Choosing the appropriate plumbing visit

We establish where the fault appears to sit in relation to the property boundary and internal isolation. Our mains water supply page explains the related work and how an assessment is arranged.

Where the findings point to mains water pipe repair, read the mains water pipe repair service details before discussing the repair scope. The actual fitting and access determine the work needed.

Information worth keeping

Record when the issue occurs, the affected room and any previous repair. For a property in our home area, plumbing in West Bridgford explains the local enquiry route; check the coverage directory for another postcode.

Connected questions

For a related question about mains water supply, the guide Low mains flow throughout the house explains what to record next.

For a related question about mains water supply, the guide An outside stop tap and a shared supply explains what to record next.