Your tap water is safe to drink. The Region's water quality meets the Ontario Drinking Water Standards set by the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change. Water quality is monitored on a continuous basis throughout the water treatment plants and distribution systems.
The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, and the Medical Officer of Health also monitor the results for any potential problems.
| Water pressure concern |
| A watermain break in your neighbourhood could disrupt the water pressure. It could also be the valve entering your home has not been opened all the way. In either case, you should contact your local Region of Durham Works Department depot. |
| Discoloured or cloudy water |
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Cloudy water is caused by tiny air bubbles in the water similar to the gas bubbles in carbonated soft drinks. After a while, the bubbles rise to the top and are gone. This type of cloudiness occurs more often in the winter, when the drinking water is colder. Discoloured water (rusty) could be caused from a disruption in the water distribution system. The first step is to let the water run for 10-20 minutes. If it does not clear in this time, contact your local Region of Durham Works Department depot. |
| Taste and odour concerns |
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In the summer season, the presence of naturally occurring algae, and higher water temperatures in Lake Ontario, can cause a noticeable earthy, musty taste and odour. Testing confirms that the water quality continues to be safe to drink during these taste and odour events. A slice of lemon or lime in water can improve the taste and smell. If you notice any problems with you drinking water such as an off taste or smell, please let us know. Contact the Works Department - Technical Support at 905-668-7711 ext. 3488 or email the Technical Support Division. When emailing the Region, please include your address and a telephone number where you can be reached. |
| Water shut off requests |
| If you have a leak inside your home and need to make repairs, the Region will shut off the water to your house from the service box outside your home. Contact your local Region of Durham Works Department depot to request this service. Please book at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee your time slot. A service truck must be sent out with the appropriate tools and skilled workers to accommodate your request. Emergency requests for water service shut offs (outside of normal working hours) can also be accommodated. There are fees for this service (both scheduled and emergency) which will be added to your monthly water bill. |
| Water meter leak repairs |
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If you have a leak at your water meter, the Region will repair it. The Region is only responsible for leak repairs from the meter or meter fittings only. Leaks from any other areas of the plumbing system including the water shut off valves on both sides of the water meter are the responsibility of the homeowner. Call your local Region of Durham Works Department depot if you have a leak at your water meter that requires repair. It is common to have condensation form on the water supply line and drip on to the floor during hot and humid weather. This condensation can be mistaken for a leak from the meter. Wipe the area of concern with a towel, and ensure that what you are observing is an actual leak before you take steps to make arrangements for repairs. |
| Water service box repairs |
| If the top of your water service box has broken, or has become raised and is creating an issue in your front lawn or driveway, call the Region of Durham Works Department depot closest to you to have it repaired. If you considering having your driveway paved and your service box is located in the driveway, call the Region to have it inspected prior to paving to reduce to possibility having the driveway disrupted afterwards due to maintenance and repair. |
| Water theft |
| Every year, thousands of litres of water are illegally taken from fire hydrants around Durham Region. Water theft is a threat to local water quality, may damage hydrants and increases water system costs. If you suspect water is being taken illegally from a hydrant, you can report this to the Region for follow up. |
| Watermain breaks |
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Watermain breaks occur unexpectedly and can temporarily disrupt the supply of water to your home. Watermains may break due to age, frost action or other factors. If a watermain breaks, the Region will act quickly to make repairs. The time it takes to complete a repair and get a watermain back into service is highly variable and is influenced by the size of the watermain and excavation challenges that can exist due to the proximity to other underground utilities. If you observe a watermain break, contact your local Region of Durham Works Department depot. |
| Water billing |
| Have a question about your water bill? View our water billing page. |
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