Video guide: use your stop tap
Step by step guide: use your stop tap
- The first step is to find your stop tap, which is typically located in your kitchen under the sink. It can also be found in a downstairs toilet or cubby hole. If you live in a flat, it may be located outside in the communal area. Your stop tap should resemble the one shown in the picture.
- Once you've located your stop tap, turn it clockwise until it won't turn any further. Then, turn on your taps downstairs to confirm that the water has been turned off. Water may still come out of the taps, but that is normal as it is just the water in the pipes draining out.
- When you need to turn your water back on, ensure all your taps are turned off. Then, turn your stop tap anti-clockwise until it doesn't turn any further. Finally, turn your water on to check that it is functioning properly. The tap may spit as air in the pipes is released. If you cannot locate your stop tap, ask your neighbour, as it may be in the same location
- Alternatively, you may have a switch to turn off your water. It should be located near the sink on the wall. Simply push it into the off position to turn off your water.