Turn off the water when a leak is uncontrolled, is spreading beyond the fixture or is likely to damage the property. Use the nearest accessible isolation point first. If the local valve does not stop the flow, use the whole-property supply only when it is safely accessible. Never force or dismantle a stuck valve.
Isolate the water safely
- Limit damage: Place a bucket or towels beneath the leak and move nearby belongings. If water is reaching electrical fittings or appliances, keep clear and do not touch switches, plugs or equipment in the wet area.
- Close the tap isolation valves: Look beneath the sink or basin for valves on the supply pipes. Mixer taps may have separate hot and cold supplies, so close both. Stop if a valve is seized, corroded or difficult to move.
- Do not force the valve: Do not add leverage, use unsuitable tools or dismantle a pressurised valve. It could break and release more water.
- Close the main stop tap if needed: It is often near the water meter at the property boundary, but locations vary. Follow the valve markings, use normal hand pressure only and stop if the valve resists.
- Apartments or shared supplies: Contact the building manager, strata representative or an emergency plumber before operating an unidentified or shared valve.
Check whether isolation worked
A brief, reducing trickle is usually water draining from the pipework. Steady or undiminished flow indicates incomplete or failed isolation.
Let residual water discharge safely into the basin or a container and check that it is clearly slowing. If water keeps running, confirm that both hot and cold supplies are closed where separate valves are fitted. Do not remove the tap, cartridge or valve until the flow has stopped and isolation is confirmed.
If the main stop tap will not work
Treat uncontrolled water that cannot be isolated as urgent and contact a licensed plumber. Tell them whether the stop tap is physically stuck or appears closed while water continues to flow.
Do not force or dismantle a valve at the water meter. Responsibility depends on the affected component, so contact Sydney Water or check its current fault-reporting guidance before arranging work on the meter assembly.
If you cannot safely isolate the flow, contact our licensed Sydney plumbing team for urgent assistance.