Should a main valve not operate or shut the water off to the home, it is the homeowner's responsibility to have it repaired or replaced. To do this work the water will need to be shut off by Public Works at the curb stop which is typically located in the front yard.
Any plumbing problem can result in severe water damage in a short period of time. At times like this the shut-off valve is invaluable. The property owner is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the valves and keeping the water meter accessible and warm.
The last thing that affects shut-off valve replacement costs is where you want to install the new valve and how easy it will be to reach there. The average cost to replace a water shut-off valve is between $375 and $600.
Try fixing it yourself — gently tighten the packing nut with a wrench, turning it only one-eighth to one-quarter of a turn; then open and close the valve several times. If tightening the packing nut doesn't stop the leak, turn off your home's main water line, remove the packing nut, and install a new valve.
I live in Southern California, the water company is responsible for the water pipe that comes from the street until it reaches the water meter (usually near the curb in front of your house). The part of the pipe that goes from the water meter to your house and all the pipes inside your house are your responsibility.
Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage from main water line breaks or any resulting water damage to your home, meaning you would have to cover repairs you're responsible for out of pocket.
Water companies are responsible for the maintenance of communication pipes and mains which includes leak detection, repairs and replacement where necessary.
The good news is that they can last for 20 to 25 years. The bad news is that if they are not used and exercised every two years (at least), they may freeze in the open position and need replacement. While true, you cannot ignore the importance of shut-off valves to your home's plumbing system.
A leak can develop, but even worse, you can't cut off or reopen the water supply if needed. If this happens to one of the secondary shut off valves, you at least still have the main one, but if it happens to the main one, you should immediately get it repaired or replaced.
The first step is to locate the source of the problem and turn off the water supply. From there, the damaged section of the pipe will need to be cut out and replaced with a new section. It's important to use the appropriate materials, and if in doubt, it's best to consult a professional to ensure the job is done right.
Turn the valve off by twisting it clockwise. Test the water flow by turning on a faucet—no water should flow if the valve is functioning correctly. Check for leaks around the valve and ensure it turns smoothly. If the valve is hard to turn or water continues to flow, it may need repair or replacement.
Main Water Shut-Off Valve Basics and Importance
Most homes actually have two such valves: One for outside water sources, which is generally controlled by the city you live in, plus one for your indoor plumbing and water areas.
The average cost to replace a main water shut-off valve is $500, but most homeowners pay between $375 and $600 for the service.
There should be a valve on each side of the water meter. Either valve will shut off the water to your home if they are operable. Care and maintenance of these valves is the responsibilty of the homeowner.
How long does it take to replace a main shut off valve? The time required for replacing a main shut off valve varies based on factors like accessibility, complexity of the job, and any unforeseen issues. On average, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours.
The homeowner is responsible for the water service line from the stop box all the way into the home, this will include the valve before the meter as well as the plumbing the meter in connected to. The home owner is also responsible for all plumbing after the water meter.
A major leak is a plumbing emergency. After all, you don't want to deal with the flooding and water damage that can result from stubborn leaks. However, minor leaks can be stopped with several homemade remedies, including: Duct tape.
If you're lucky, your home's water line will last 70 years or more. But that depends on a lot of factors, and even if those factors are largely in your favor, damage can still occur.
One of the biggest dangers of a broken main water valve is the threat of flooding and water damage. Even small leaks can cause water damage and wood rot over time, and a major leak can lead to flooding in your home fairly quickly.
Whenever there is a break in and water main or service line, either you, as a property owner, or the city should fix it asap. It is the city's responsibility to fix such a break if it is a part of the main serving the public. However, there are instances where such breaks affect service lines.
Contact a trained and licensed plumber who knows how to fix a broken water line.
Who is Responsible for the Water Line From the Street to Your House? Water service lines within the bounds of your property are considered your personal responsibility to maintain, while public water pipes outside of private property lines are the city's responsibility.