How much is the water bill for a typical Markham home?Markham’s 2026 combined water and wastewater rate is $5.3694 per cubic metre, effective April 1, billed every two months on your Alectra bill. The City’s figures imply an average home uses about 1 cubic metre a day, which works out to roughly $160 a month, or about $1,960 a year. A separate $56 stormwater fee appears on the property tax bill. Fixing leaks and using efficient fixtures are the simplest savings.
Water is one of the costs new owners often underestimate, especially when moving from a condo where it was part of the fees.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, includes water in the carrying-cost estimates he prepares for buyers.
The 2026 numbers
| Item | 2026 figure |
|---|---|
| Combined water and wastewater rate | $5.3694 per m³ |
| Billing | Every two months, on the Alectra bill |
| Stormwater fee | $56 per residential property, on the tax bill |
| Illustrative use | About 1 m³ a day for an average home |
At about 30 m³ a month, the water and wastewater cost is roughly $161 a month. Larger households, pools and lawn watering use more.
Find leaks
- Turn off all water use, including humidifiers, ice makers and air conditioners.
- Record the meter reading.
- Wait several hours without using water.
- If the reading changed, look for a leaking toilet, faucet or pipe.
Lower your usage
- Replace older toilets with low-flow models.
- Install efficient showerheads and faucet aerators.
- Water lawns early in the morning, and less often.
- Run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
Want a full carrying-cost estimate?
Michael John Lau can estimate taxes, utilities and water for any Markham home.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
For buyers
Ask the seller for recent Alectra bills, especially for homes with pools, irrigation or large households. Include water when comparing a condo, where it may be in the fees, with a freehold home.
For owners
Rates take effect each April 1, so check the City’s rate page each spring. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information to plan your costs.
Small changes in water use add up over a year. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Markham's water rate in 2026?
$5.3694 per cubic metre, combined water and wastewater, effective April 1.
How often is the water bill sent?
Every two months, on the Alectra bill.
How much does a typical home pay?
Roughly $160 a month at about 1 cubic metre a day.
What is the stormwater fee?
A $56 charge per residential property on the property tax bill.
How do I check for a water leak?
Record the meter, use no water for several hours and check again.
Who fixes leaks inside my home?
You do; owners are responsible for their own plumbing.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Rates, billing and the stormwater fee are from the City of Markham Rates, Meters, Billing and Fees page (2026). Average use is implied by the City's estimate for unmetered homes; the monthly figure is calculated. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
