City of Toronto
Toronto Priority Lead Water Service Replacement
When you commit to replacing the private side of a lead water service, the City of Toronto replaces its side on a priority basis. We replace your side, often trenchless, and provide the invoice the City needs.
- Free written estimates
- Permits and rebates handled
- 24/7 emergency service
How the program works
What the Toronto lead pipe program covers
A water service has two parts. The City owns the section from the watermain under the street to your property line, and you own the section from the property line into your home. Replacing only one side still leaves lead in the line.
Toronto's Priority Lead Water Service Replacement Program coordinates both sides. You replace the private side, and the City replaces its side on a priority basis, aiming to finish within 12 weeks of approval. We replace private-side lead services across Toronto, Etobicoke, North York and Scarborough.
Who qualifies
- Homes with a lead water service, most common in homes built before the mid-1950s
- You commit to replacing the private side, before or at the same time as the City side
- The City encourages several independent quotes for the private side
- Applications take up to two weeks to process, and a lead-removal faucet filter is mailed once the City side is confirmed as lead
- A 311 service record check can take up to 30 business days
Documents you need
- Signed City application form
- Invoice from a contractor or licensed plumber, or a home inspector's report, showing the private side is no longer lead
Timing: The City aims to replace its side within 12 weeks of approval.
How we help
How we prepare your Toronto lead pipe program application
- Step 1
Confirm the pipe
We check the pipe where it enters your home and confirm whether it is lead before any work is quoted.
- Step 2
Written quote
The City encourages several independent quotes for the private side. Ours is itemized, so it is easy to compare.
- Step 3
Replace your side
We replace the private side with new copper, using trenchless methods where they fit, and restore the entry points.
- Step 4
Proof for the City
You receive an invoice showing the private side is no longer lead, which is what the City asks for.
Services
Work this program helps pay for
FAQ
Toronto lead pipe program questions
Straight answers to the questions homeowners ask us most. If yours is not here, give us a call.
Does the City pay for my side of the lead pipe?
No. The homeowner pays for the private side, from the property line into the home. The City replaces its side, from the watermain to the property line, on a priority basis.
How long does the City take?
Applications take up to two weeks to process, and the City aims to replace its side within 12 weeks of approval.
What do I do while I wait?
Once the City confirms its side is lead, it mails a lead-removal faucet filter. Running the tap until the water is cold before drinking also helps.
Which homes are likely to have lead pipes?
Lead water services are most common in homes built before the mid-1950s. The only way to be sure is to check the pipe itself.
Let us work out your rebate
Book a free estimate. We will confirm you qualify, quote the work and show your rebate and your cost after it, in writing.