Causes of water outages

​What causes a water outage

There are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing a water service disruption. We have outlined some of the main causes for a water outage and what you can do to find out if there is a water disruption on your property.

​Natural causes

Extreme temperature fluctuations in the winter and spring are a leading cause of water interruptions. As the ground freezes and thaws several times, it can shift the earth and cause water mains to break.

Learn how to prevent frozen pipes and a frozen water line on your property before it happens.

Emergency interruptions

Occasionally, we have to shut off water to areas during water main breaks or to conduct certain repair work that can't be safely handled any other way. We always work as quickly and as safely as possible to fix emergency water interruptions.

Corrosion

Many of the pipes used in water distribution are made from cast iron, which is susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion weakens the pipes causing them to break. To help combat this issue, we're continuously replacing these cast iron water mains with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), which has significantly reduced the number of main breaks.

Unplanned interruption

Water outages can occur when underground pipes are accidentally hit and damaged. It's important to confirm where water lines are before starting to dig. Visit Utility Safety Partner's Click Before You Dig to submit a locate request and ensure you are safe.

Unsure if you have a water main break or looking for information when you have a leak? View more information on signs of a water main break or how to report a water leak.

Planned interruptions

We'll occasionally schedule planned water interruptions, so we can maintain the neighbourhood water supply system. This involves the replacement of cast iron water mains with PVC to help combat corrosion damage.

​About water pipes on your property

For homeowners and building owners, you're responsible for the maintenance and repair of most water fixtures on your property. Your water utility is responsible for the pipes leading up to the property line and the water meter itself. Learn more about responsibilities for water pipes on your property.