Where is my stop tap, and when would I need it?
Your stop tap turns off the mains water supply inside your home. If you know where it is before there is a leak, you can save a lot of damage and panic.
Where to look first
Most internal stop taps are found under the kitchen sink, in a hall cupboard, under the stairs, in a downstairs toilet, garage or near where the cold water pipe enters the property.
In flats, it may be inside a cupboard, utility space or service riser. Some homes also have an outside stop tap near the pavement or water meter, but the indoor one is usually the first place to check.
When you would use it
Use the stop tap if a pipe bursts, a tap will not turn off, a toilet or shower connection leaks, or plumbing work is being carried out.
Before a bathroom installation starts, it is helpful to know the stop tap works properly. It makes isolating the water much safer and quicker.
How to maintain it
Turn it gently every few months so it does not seize up. Open it fully, then turn it back slightly so it is less likely to stick.
Do not force it if it is stiff. A forced stop tap can snap or start leaking, which quickly turns a small check into an emergency.
Quick checks
- Find it before you need it.
- Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is.
- Keep the cupboard around it clear enough to reach it quickly.
- Label it clearly if it is hidden away.
- Get it checked if it is seized, dripping or hard to turn.