I need a plumber in Toronto, now!

Water leaks are no fun. Think mold, awful smells, and headaches. Get fixing!

Author: Openroom HQ

Published: Thursday, August 3, 2023 | Updated: Thursday, August 3, 2023

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When owning a home, there will definitely be times when you need a plumber who knows what they are doing.

As a Tenant living in the rental unit, it is your responsibility to notify the Landlord of the water issues as soon as possible because water damages can get costly over time. You don't want to be accused of negligence.

As a Landlord, it's important to repair your home before further damages occur and prevent costly fixes. When it’s a water issue, there may be different levels of severity. Depending on whether it impedes health and safety, it is the duty of the landlord to make sure it is taken care of within a reasonable amount of time.

For Landlords: Recommended time to respond

1. Priority 1: Health and safety concern for Tenants. Time to fix the issue should be ASAP within 24 hours.

2. Priority 2: Damage to house. At the discretion of Landlords. Recommended time to fix the issue is 72 hours.

3. Priority 3: Minor Leaks. At the discretion of Landlords, ideally before it becomes a larger issue. Recommended time to fix the issue is 1 week.

Example of common leaks

• Whole House Meter Check for Leaks

• Water Supply Line Leaks

• Faucet, Shower, and Tub Leaks

• Toilet Leaks

• Whole House Humidifier Leaks

• Evaporative Cooler Leaks

• Pool and Fountain Leaks

Example common issues with plumbing

• Frozen pipes

• Burst pipes

• Toilet change

• Clogged sink or toilet

• Backwater valve installation

• Clogged drains

It’s always best to engage a few companies to get a general quote virtually before you make a decision.

Tips for tenants:

• As soon as you notice it, notify the Landlord

• Take photos and/or videos of the water issue, send it to your Landlord. The more evidence you collect and provide, the sooner the landlord and the plumber can address the issue.

• If possible and safe, turn off the water supply causing the leak

• Provide some times you are most comfortable with an inspection and then the actual fix. Occassionally, the Landlord may want to do an inspection prior to calling the plumber directly. Remember, based on the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) rules, you do not need to be present when the inspection, or when the fix is done, as long as there has been 24 hours of notice.

Tips for landlords:

• Conduct your own inspection

• If it warrants a fix that you or tenant cannot fix, call a professional plumber

• Have photos and videos of the water issue

• Explain the situation briefly

• Coordinate a time for the plumber to resolve the issue

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5 Companies used by the Openroom team

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