The stopcock is the most important valve in your house — it is the one that turns all the water off. If yours is seized, dripping or you are not sure where it is, it is worth sorting before you need it in a hurry.
Gas Safe registered 25 years in the trade 12 years running the business
Why the stopcock matters
When a pipe bursts or a tank starts leaking, the first thing you do is turn off the stopcock. If it has not been touched in fifteen years, there is a fair chance it will not turn — or that it turns and then drips from the spindle. Finding that out during an emergency is the worst possible time.
It is worth finding your stopcock today and trying it gently. It is usually under the kitchen sink, but can be in a downstairs toilet, a cupboard or under the stairs. If it will not budge, do not force it with a wrench — that is how valves snap. Give us a call instead.
What replacing a stopcock involves
The water has to be turned off outside the property first, either at the external stop tap in the pavement or by arrangement with the water company. The old valve is then cut out and a new one fitted. We fit full-bore lever valves where the pipework allows, because they close with a quarter turn, do not seize the way old gate valves do, and it is obvious at a glance whether the water is on or off.
Water drips from the spindle when the valve is used
It turns but the water does not fully stop
You have no idea where it is — we can find it and show you
The external stop tap
The stop tap outside, usually under a small cover in the pavement or path, belongs to the water company and should not be forced either. If it is broken or the chamber is full of water, report it to your water supplier — they will repair their side. We handle everything from that point into the house.
After a replacement
Once the new valve is in, we test it fully off and fully on, check for weeps at the joints and show you exactly where it is. If you ever have a burst pipe or need leak detection, that valve is the thing that limits the damage while you wait for help.
Common questions
Stopcock Replacement FAQs
Clear answers before you arrange a visit.
How do I turn my water off if the stopcock is stuck?+
Do not force it. There may be an external stop tap outside the property, but if that is also stuck, call the water company for their side and us for yours. Forcing a seized valve can snap it and turn a small job into a flood.
Where is my stopcock?+
Most often under the kitchen sink, but also in downstairs toilets, under-stairs cupboards or near where the supply enters the house. If you cannot find it, we can trace it during a visit.
How much does stopcock replacement cost?+
It depends on access and the pipework around the valve. The water has to be off outside first, which can affect timing. Call us and we will explain what is involved for your setup.
Should I replace a stopcock before it fails?+
Yes, if it is stiff or ancient. A working stopcock is the single best defence against water damage, and replacing it is a planned job rather than an emergency one.
