Don’t wait for a power failure or flooded basement to figure out your home’s inner workings, such as valves and power sources.
1
The main shutoff valve will usually be next to the meter. Every fixture has its own local valve, too.
2
Print the name of the water source on a peel-off label; affix the labels to copper plant tags, and wrap them around the appropriate pipes.
3
If your electrician hasn’t already done so, label each circuit switch in your fuse box or circuit breaker with the room or area of the house it controls. Attach a flashlight to the box (using magnets or Velcro).
4
It should include the location of shutoff valves, fuses, circuit breakers, or power sources for everything that uses water, gas, or electricity. Apply color-coded stickers for each utility. Keep this somewhere safe and visible.