Emergency plumbing in Etobicoke

At a glance

First move

Close the main shut-off valve

Electric safety

Keep clear of water near outlets and panels

Typical emergencies

Burst pipes, sewage backup, water heater leak, toilet overflow

How to reach us

Telephone only, so a person answers

What to do right now

Find the main shut-off. In most Etobicoke houses it is found where the supply line passes through the front foundation wall, often in a utility room or under the basement stairs. Wind it clockwise as far as it will go. If it will not budge, do not force an old gate valve until it snaps; call us and we will guide you to the alternatives.

• When water reaches outlets or the breaker panel, keep out of the wet area and leave the breaker alone unless you can reach it from a dry floor.

Calls we take most

Frozen pipes splitting inside an outside wall when January turns bitter. A water heater tank rusting through at the bottom. A toilet supply line bursting while the family is out. A main sewer backing up into the basement after a storm.

• Each of these needs a different first step, which is why you will speak to a plumber when you call rather than leave a form.

When we arrive

We stop the leak, make the area safe and photograph the damage so you have a record for insurance. Then we repair what can be repaired properly that day and explain plainly what needs to come back as a planned job.

• We would rather fix the pipe right than patch it twice.

Signs to watch for

• Water dripping through a ceiling
• Sewage rising through a floor drain
• No water at any tap
• Hissing from inside a wall
• A water heater leaking from the bottom

The first minutes

1. Shut the main

   Turn the main valve clockwise to stop supply.

2. Open a low tap

   Drain the pressure from the lines at a basement tap.

3. Call the line

   Describe what you see so we bring the right parts.

4. Move valuables

   Lift boxes and electronics off the wet floor.