Homeowner guideCondo guide
Plumbing Tips for Markham Condo Owners
Condo plumbing is shared in ways a detached home is not. These tips help Markham condo owners avoid leaks and disputes.
Elegant bathroom with marble tiles, large mirror, and modern fixtures.
- Short steps a homeowner can follow safely
- What to check before you pick up the phone
- Clear signs it is time to call a plumber
- Markham and York Region notes where they matter
- Licensing details confirmed when you call
- Residential
- Commercial
- Markham & York Region
The short version
- Find the shut-offs for your suite, often behind an access panel.
- Know where shut-offs for individual fixtures are.
- Test them occasionally to make sure they work.
Know your responsibilities
Your condo declaration and bylaws describe which pipes and fixtures belong to you and which belong to the corporation. In general, fixtures inside your suite are yours, while risers and common pipes are the building's. Read your documents or ask management.
Prevent leaks
- Replace washer hoses with braided steel.
- Check dishwasher and fridge connections.
- Keep an eye on toilets and caulking.
- Put a battery leak alarm beneath each sink and beside the washer.
If you have a leak
- Shut off your suite's water.
- Call building management or security.
- Call a plumber if the leak is in your suite.
- Notify neighbours below if water may have reached them.
- Contact your insurance company.
From the van: Many condos require plumbers to book elevators and follow building rules. We work with management to schedule visits.
Renovations
Most condo corporations require approval before changing plumbing. Check the rules before moving fixtures or adding new lines.
Status certificates and buying
If you are purchasing a unit in a Markham tower, the status certificate can mention past water claims, reserve fund plans for riser replacement and any special assessments. Ask your lawyer to flag anything plumbing-related before you firm up the deal.
Owners in older buildings should also ask whether the corporation has a schedule for replacing in-suite valves, since those are sometimes done building-wide.