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.

Understanding the issue

A main isolation point should be reachable when water needs stopping. Moving or replacing a valve requires a plan to isolate the supply safely and reconnect suitable pipework. Cabinet changes may be needed for lasting access.

Before arranging the visit

Explain what blocks access and where a more usable control could be positioned.

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 internal stopcock installation, read the internal stopcock installation 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 Water Everywhere? Find Your Stop Tap Before the Ceiling Gets Worse explains what to record next.

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