Your water service line, often called the water main, is the buried pipe that carries water from the municipal supply to your house. Because it is underground, problems can go unnoticed until they are obvious.
Signs your water service line may be failing
- A wet or soggy patch in the yard that does not dry out, even in dry weather.
- Lower water pressure throughout the house.
- An unexplained increase in your water bill.
- Discoloured water that is not limited to the hot side.
- The sound of running water when everything is turned off.
A water meter test is a quick way to check whether water is escaping.
Who is responsible for which part?
In many municipalities, the city is responsible for the service up to the property line or curb stop, and the homeowner is responsible for the section from there to the house. Rules vary, so confirm with your municipality before work begins.
Repair or replace?
A single leak in an otherwise sound line may be repairable. If the line is old, made of a material prone to failure, or has leaked more than once, replacement is often the better long-term option. See main water line repair.
How replacement works
- Assessment. The route, depth, pipe material and site conditions are reviewed, and utility locates are arranged before any digging.
- Choosing a method. A traditional open trench may be used, or, where conditions allow, a trenchless method that pulls or bores new pipe with smaller access pits.
- Installation and testing. The new line is connected, pressure tested and flushed before the water is restored.
- Restoration. Access pits or trenches are backfilled. Ask what landscaping restoration is included.
Planning ahead
Permits may be required, and the municipality may need to shut off water at the curb. Ask how long you will be without water and plan around it.
Learn about main water line replacement or book a free estimate.