Plumbing service
Water service line replacement
The line carrying water from the street main into your basement may be decades old. In some older homes it is lead. In many it is too small for a modern household. Replacing it improves both water quality and pressure.
- Ownership: Homeowner side to the property line; city side to the main
- Lead pipe: Dull grey, soft, does not attract a magnet
- City program: Toronto has run a lead service replacement program; check current terms
- Typical new pipe: Copper or approved plastic service pipe
- Licensed, insured trade work (details confirmed when you call)
- Diagnosis before anything is cut
- Emergency calls taken
- Etobicoke and the west end
At a glance
- Ownership
- Homeowner side to the property line; city side to the main
- Lead pipe
- Dull grey, soft, does not attract a magnet
- City program
- Toronto has run a lead service replacement program; check current terms
- Typical new pipe
- Copper or approved plastic service pipe
Checking your service pipe
Look at the pipe where it enters through the front foundation wall, upstream of the water meter. A lead line looks matte grey and is soft: a house key scratches it bright, and is not magnetic. Many homes built before the mid-1950s in Toronto were connected with lead.
- If you have lead, the City of Toronto has offered programs to replace the public portion; coordinating your private side with the city work is the best approach.
- Check the city website for current details.
How the replacement is done
Depending on soil, landscaping and depth, the new pipe can be installed by digging a trench or by pulling it through with trenchless methods. A new main shut-off valve is fitted inside the house.
- A permit is required, and utility locates are arranged before any digging.
Pressure and sizing
Older houses were often connected with half-inch or narrow three-quarter-inch pipe. Adding bathrooms, irrigation or a basement suite can stretch that. Upsizing the service while it is open is often worthwhile.
- After replacement, we flush the lines thoroughly and check pressure at fixtures.
Signs to watch for
- Soft grey pipe at the meter
- Low pressure throughout the house
- Home built before the mid-1950s
- Planning a renovation or suite
- Leak in the front lawn
How the job runs
Identify the pipe
Material and size confirmed.
Permits and locates
Paperwork and utility marking.
Install new service
Trench or trenchless replacement.
New valve and flush
Main shut-off fitted, lines flushed.