Homeowner guidePrevention
Plumbing Prep Before You Travel
A leak while you are away can run for days. These simple steps protect your home while you travel.
Sink with faucet on marble counter in modern stylish kitchen with white cabinets and glowing lamp near.
- 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
- Shut off the main water valve if no one will use water while you are gone.
- Turn the water heater to vacation mode, or off for electric heaters.
- Turn off water to the washing machine.
- Check that the sump pump works and has a backup if possible.
- Look for leaks under sinks and around toilets.
In winter
- Keep the heat at a safe level, usually not lower than about 15 degrees Celsius.
- Leave sink cupboards on exterior walls propped open.
- Ask someone to check the house regularly.
- Check your insurance policy's rules for winter absences.
If you leave water on
If a house sitter or pets need water, leave the main on but shut off water to unused fixtures and the washer. Show your sitter where the main valve is.
From the van: Smart leak detectors and water shut-off valves can alert you and stop a leak automatically while you are away.
When you return
- Turn the main valve on slowly.
- Run each tap to clear air.
- Return the water heater to normal.
- Check for leaks.
Longer winter stays away
Snowbirds leaving for weeks should consider draining the supply lines entirely. Shut the main, open the lowest tap and every faucet above it, and flush each toilet once. A plumber can also blow the lines clear with compressed air. Remember to tell your insurer how the home will be monitored.
A neighbour with a key and your phone number is still the best protection money cannot buy.