Booking and visits
We book by phone only. A short call helps us understand what is happening and whether there is something you should do right now, such as closing a valve.
Drains and sewers
Older Scarborough laterals are often clay or cast iron, and tree roots find their joints. A camera inspection is the most reliable way to see what is going on inside.
Before a camera inspection, find your basement cleanout. It is usually a capped pipe near the floor drain or at the front wall.
Water heaters
Most problems are a failed element, thermocouple or venting issue on a tank unit. Leaks from the tank itself usually mean replacement.
Flooding
Sump pumps, backwater valves and clear drains are the main defences. Test your sump pump in early spring by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
Things callers ask us
How do I book a plumber?
Call (365) 363-7205. We book by phone only, so you can describe the problem and ask questions right away.
Do you handle emergencies?
Yes. Burst pipes, sewage backups and major leaks get priority. Shut off the main water valve if you can, then call.
How much will my repair cost?
It depends on the cause, access and parts. We inspect first and explain the options and price before any work starts.
Storm nights bring water up my floor drain. Why?
Usually a partial blockage in the sewer lateral, or the municipal sewer surcharging. A camera inspection tells you which, and a backwater valve can help.
Is there City money toward flood protection work?
Toronto has run a subsidy program toward backwater valves, sump pumps and related work. Read the latest City terms first, since amounts and conditions have changed over time.
What lifespan should I expect from my water heater?
A typical tank gives roughly a decade of service, sometimes a little less in hard water or a little more with yearly flushing. On-demand units tend to outlast tanks.
Do I have lead pipes?
Older houses, roughly pre-1955, can still be fed by lead. Soft grey pipe that shows bright metal when scratched, and ignores a fridge magnet, is the giveaway.
Who owns the sewer pipe to the street?
In Toronto the homeowner is generally responsible for the lateral on private property, while the City handles the portion on City property. Ask the City to confirm for your address.
Are bottled drain openers a good idea?
Our advice is to skip them. Those products seldom open a complete blockage, they are hard on old metal pipe, and any caustic left in the line is a hazard for the person who takes the trap apart.
Do you rent water heaters?
We install and repair owned water heaters. If your unit is rented, check your rental agreement before replacing it.
