Report a watermain break

If you notice water pooling or flowing above ground, or your water pressure drops suddenly, there may be a watermain break.

Call us right away at 519-886-2310.

What to do if you suspect a break

If you think there’s a break near your home or business:

  • call 519-886-2310 immediately – city crews are available 24/7
  • stay clear of the area – flowing water can cause slippery or unstable ground
  • tell us what you see, including the location and any visible signs such as pooling water or low pressure

City crews will inspect the site and make repairs as quickly and safely as possible.

After a repair

You may notice temporary changes to water pressure or colour after repairs.

To clear discoloured water:

  • don’t drink discoloured water
  • run a cold water tap for a few minutes until it runs clear
  • if it still looks discoloured after 5 minutes, wait an hour and try again

For ongoing pressure or water quality issues, visit the Check an issue with your water page.

If your water does not clear, call 519-886-2310.

What causes watermain breaks

Watermain breaks are usually caused by:

  • extreme cold or sudden temperature changes
  • pipes age or corrode over time
  • ground shifts during freeze–thaw cycles

The city monitors for breaks and has a planned pipe replacement program.

Contact us

If you have questions about watermains or maintenance:

After hours, your call will go to our on-call utilities team.