Who is responsible for lead water pipes in older Markham homes?Markham homes built before 1953 may have used lead for the water service line. The City says it has replaced all known lead service lines on the public side, from the watermain to the property line. The private line from the property line into the house, and the home’s own plumbing, are the owner’s responsibility and may still contain lead. Check the pipe entering your water meter, and ask a plumber before you buy.
Character homes in Markham Village, Unionville and Thornhill offer craftsmanship and history. Some also have original pipes underground.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, adds the water line to the inspection list for older homes.
Who owns which pipe
| Section | Responsibility | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Watermain to property line | City of Markham | All known lead lines replaced |
| Property line to house | Homeowner | May still be lead in older homes |
| Plumbing inside the house | Homeowner | May include lead pipe or solder |
How to check
- Find the water meter, usually in the basement.
- Look at the pipe entering the bottom of the meter.
- Lead is grey, does not ring when tapped gently, scratches easily and leaves metallic marks on paper.
- Copper is a reddish-brown colour; galvanized steel is grey and magnetic.
Daily precautions
If water has sat in the pipes for hours, run the cold tap until it feels cooler, then a few minutes more. Use cold water for drinking and cooking, and clean faucet aerators regularly. Ontario’s standard for lead in drinking water is 0.010 mg/L.
Looking at an older Markham home?
Michael John Lau can help you plan the right inspections for a character home.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Galvanized and older plumbing
Older galvanized supply pipes can corrode inside, lowering water pressure. Some insurers ask about the type and age of plumbing. A plumber can confirm materials and quote replacement, which may need a permit.
Before you offer
- Check the incoming line at the meter during the showing.
- Ask the seller whether the private line was replaced.
- Include plumbing in the inspection and insurance quote.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you buy.
Older homes reward buyers who look below the surface. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Do older Markham homes have lead pipes?
Homes built before 1953 may have lead service lines on the private side.
Who replaces lead pipes in Markham?
The City handles the public side; owners are responsible from the property line into the house.
How can I tell if my pipe is lead?
Lead is grey, scratches easily and does not ring when tapped gently.
What is Ontario's lead standard for drinking water?
0.010 mg/L.
Is galvanized plumbing a problem?
It can corrode and reduce water pressure over time.
Who do I call about a possible lead service line?
A plumber for the private side, and the City's Contact Centre at 905-477-5530.
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. Lead service line history, responsibilities, the 0.010 mg/L standard and checking tips are from the City of Markham Tap Water Quality and Testing page. Confirm details with the City of Markham. 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.
