Emergency prep

Where Is Your Main Water Shut-Off? A Guide for Arlington Homes

When a pipe bursts, every minute counts. Find your shut-off now, before you need it.

By the Arlington Leak Pros team · October 18, 2026

Leaking water line exposed in a dug-out trench in an Arlington, TX yard

Your main water shut-off valve stops all water coming into your home. When a pipe bursts, closing it is the fastest way to limit damage. In most Arlington homes, it is near the front of the house, in the garage, or at the meter box by the street. Find it today, before you need it. If water is leaking now, close the valve and call (817) 285-5426, 24/7.

Where is the main water shut-off in an Arlington home?

Most Arlington homes have a shut-off valve where the water line enters the house, often on an outside wall facing the street, inside the garage, or near the water heater. There is also a valve in the meter box near the street. Some homes have the house valve in a small box in the ground near the foundation.

Outside wall facing the street
Inside the garage
Near the water heater
In-ground box by the foundation
Meter box near the curb
Utility or laundry room

Follow the line: the water meter is usually near the street, and the main line runs from there toward the house. The house valve is often where that line meets the home.

How do you turn off the main water valve?

If it is a round wheel handle, turn it clockwise until it stops. If it is a lever handle, turn it a quarter turn so the lever sits across the pipe. Then open a faucet on the lowest floor to check that the water stops and to drain pressure from the lines.

Find the valve and clear dirt or debris around it.
Wheel handle: turn clockwise until snug. Do not force it.
Lever handle: turn a quarter turn so it crosses the pipe.
Open a faucet to confirm the water is off.
Turn off the water heater if you will be without water for a while.

What if the valve is stuck or you cannot find it?

Older valves can be stiff from mineral buildup. Do not use a long pipe or cheater bar, because forcing it can break the valve and make the leak worse. If the house valve will not turn or you cannot find it, use the valve in the meter box near the street, which usually needs a meter key or wrench.

The meter is owned by the city. If you are not sure it is safe to use or cannot reach it, call Arlington Water Utilities for help, then call a licensed plumber to fix the leak.

Think you have a leak? A licensed Arlington technician answers 24/7.

Call Now (817) 285-5426

Should you test your shut-off valve?

Yes. Test it once or twice a year by closing it and checking a faucet. A valve that will not close all the way, or leaks at the stem, should be replaced before an emergency. A working shut-off is one of the cheapest ways to protect your home from water damage.

Show everyone in the house where it is, and tag it so it is easy to find in a hurry.

What should you do after you shut off the water?

Turn off the water heater, cut power to wet areas, move belongings away from water, take photos for insurance, and call a licensed plumber. If the source of the water is not obvious, leak detection finds the exact spot before anyone opens walls or floors.

See our full list of steps to take during a leak. If you have to shut off water often because of hidden leaks, read our guide to how leak detection works.

Can the shut-off valve help you find a leak?

Yes. With every tap off, check the water meter, then close the house valve and check again. If the meter stops, the leak is inside the house. If it keeps moving, the leak is likely in the buried line between the meter and the house.

Learn more in our guides to a high water bill and underground water line leaks.

Frequently asked questions

Which way do I turn the water shut-off valve?

For a round wheel handle, turn it clockwise to close. For a lever handle, turn it a quarter turn so the lever is across the pipe. The lever is open when it runs in the same direction as the pipe.

Can I turn off the water at the meter?

Yes, there is a valve at the meter, but it often needs a meter key and belongs to the city. Use the house valve first. If you cannot, call Arlington Water Utilities for help.

Do I need to turn off the water heater too?

If the water will be off for a while, yes. Turn a gas heater to pilot or off, and switch off the breaker for an electric heater. This protects the heater while the lines are empty.

What if my shut-off valve leaks?

A valve that drips at the stem or will not close fully should be replaced by a licensed plumber. It is a small job that can save you from much bigger water damage later.