Emergency guide
Where is my main water shut-off valve?
Short answer: in most Toronto houses it is in the basement, on the wall facing the street, where the water pipe comes in next to the meter. Turn it clockwise to close.
Where to look
Where do Toronto homes usually hide the shut-off?
Basement, front wall
Where the service line enters, next to the meter.
Under the stairs
Common in older semis and row houses.
Utility room
Newer builds route it into the mechanical room.
Behind an access panel
In finished basements, on the front wall.
Condos and townhouses
Laundry closet, under the kitchen sink or near the water heater.
Curb stop outside
Operated only by the municipality.
FAQ
Common questions
Which way do I turn it?
Clockwise to close. A lever valve closes with a quarter turn so the handle sits across the pipe.
It will not turn. What now?
Do not force it. Call a plumber; in an emergency Toronto Water (311) can shut the curb stop.
Should I replace an old valve?
A stiff old gate valve should be replaced with a quarter-turn ball valve.