Emergency Leak Response
If a leak is occurring at your property and you need to turn your water off immediately, follow these steps:
- Determine the source of the leak. Most water sources in your property (faucets, toilets, appliances) have their own shutoff valve. Try to isolate the problem at the source first.
- If you cannot contain the leak at the source or don’t know where it’s coming from, locate your Customer Shut-Off Valve (see below) and turn the water off. If you do not have a Customer Shut-Off Valve or don’t know where to find it, turn the water off at the master shut off valve which is usually located where the water line comes into the house or near the water heater.
- Depending on the type of valve, turn it clockwise until tight or rotate the handle so that it is perpendicular to the pipe.
- If you cannot locate or turn off the valve, call LACSD’s Customer Service at (909) 336-7100 to have a member of our staff turn the meter off. Please do not try to operate the District’s valve. In case of emergencies, on-call personnel are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If it is not an emergency, an after-hours fee may be charged.
Customer Shut-Off Valve (CSOV)
All homes should be equipped with a Customer Shut-Off Valve (CSOV) which is usually located in a separate meter box approximately two feet from the LACSD meter box or where the water line enters the home. LACSD water meters are the property of the District and must not be touched or tampered with. Only LACSD can turn the water off at the meter. A CSOV enables the property owner to turn the water off quickly without the need to call the water company. Be sure that all of your household members are familiar with the location and operation of the CSOV.
The following pictures depict typical CSOVs. They are usually located near the LACSD meter but can also be inside the garage or buildup.
[CSOV pics]
Installing a CSOV can also protect you from unauthorized water use or water theft from outside faucets when you are not at your home. If you install a Customer Shut-Off Valve after increased water usage, you may be eligible for a one-time 50% waiver of the water portion of your bill.
If you have any questions about a CSOV, call our Customer Service at (909) 336-7100. If you do not have a CSOV, it is highly recommended that you contact any local plumber to install one for you.
Winterizing
When temperatures get cold, pipes can freeze, causing them to expand and break. To learn about how to protect your property, see our Winterizing page.
