Trouble most often logged here
- In-suite water heaters. Many units have compact electric tanks; electric water heater repair covers element and thermostat faults.
- Leaks to the unit below. Supply lines to toilets, dishwashers and washing machines are common culprits.
- Slow drains. Kitchen sinks in stacked units can be affected by both your own drain and the shared stack.
- Shut-off valves. Small in-suite valves seize from disuse, which matters when you need them.
- Townhouse basement backups. Older condominium townhouses with basements face the same risks as houses; a backwater valve installation may be appropriate if the corporation approves.
Homes and streets in City Centre
The area around Pickering Town Centre, Glenanna Road and the Esplanade has older low-rise condominiums and townhouses alongside newer high-rise buildings. Mid-rise blocks near the GO station and Kingston Road are adding hundreds of units. Most residents live in units where shared risers, pumps and boilers are run by the condominium, and the plumbing inside the suite is the owner's.
City Centre buildings are on Durham Region water and sewer. In condominiums, the declaration decides who handles what, and most corporations require notice and sometimes approval before plumbing work in a suite.
Water, sewer and local rules
City Centre buildings are on Durham Region water and sewer. In condominiums, the declaration decides who handles what, and most corporations require notice and sometimes approval before plumbing work in a suite. Work that alters drains, vents or supply generally needs a City of Pickering permit. We are happy to coordinate with your property manager on access, elevator booking and water shut-downs.
Small-suite upgrades that pay off
In compact condominium units, a few small changes prevent most of the leaks we are called to. Replace rubber washing machine hoses with braided ones. Add a leak sensor under the kitchen basin and beside the water heater. Swap old toilet supply lines and fill valves. Check the dishwasher drain connection when you next pull the unit for cleaning. Each of these takes little time, and together they protect your suite and your neighbours below. Ask about them when you book any other work, since they fit easily into the same visit. A dated record of what was changed is also handy if management ever asks.
Getting a plumber out to you
City Centre is the most central part of Pickering, close to Highway 401 and Brock Road, so we can usually reach it quickly. Tell us when you book whether you live in a condominium, and let the concierge or management office know we are coming. For active leaks, shut your suite valve, alert management so they can check the unit below, and call us. For planned work, we will confirm what the corporation allows before we start. Nearby Brock Industrial and Dunbarton round out the central part of the city.
Questions callers ask
Do I need my condo's permission before plumbing work?
Many corporations require notice or approval, especially for work affecting shared lines or water shut-downs. Check with your management office.
If my leak reaches the suite underneath, who covers it?
That depends on the cause, your declaration and your insurance. Report it to management promptly and keep records.