Knowing where the stop tap is can make a big difference during a leak. In many Cardiff homes it may be under the kitchen sink, in a utility cupboard, near the front door, under stairs, or in a shared service cupboard.
Use this guide to find it calmly, test it gently, and report any leak with enough information for the next step to be arranged.
Find the stop tap
Look first under the kitchen sink and around cupboards close to the incoming water supply. In flats or converted buildings, the stop tap may be in a hallway cupboard, meter cupboard or shared area.
It usually looks like a small tap or lever fitted to pipework. If there are several valves and you are unsure which is correct, take a photo and ask for guidance rather than turning random valves.
Turn it off safely
Most stop taps close by turning clockwise. Use steady hand pressure only. If it is stiff, do not force it with tools, as old fittings can seize or break.
Once turned off, open a cold tap downstairs or nearby. The flow should slow and stop. Some water may continue briefly while pipework empties.
Report the leak
Move belongings away from water, use a bowl or towel to limit spread, and avoid touching switches or electrical fittings that may be wet. If water is near electrics, keep clear and report that clearly.
When contacting 2let2, include where the leak is, whether the stop tap is off, whether the water has stopped, and photos or a short video if safe to take.
