Plumbing in Jane and Finch

Jane and Finch housing and pipes

Much of the housing near Jane and Finch was built quickly in the 1960s and 1970s. There are large apartment towers, townhouse rows owned by public or private landlords, and streets of semis and detached homes. The plumbing generation is fairly uniform: copper supply supply, drains of cast iron or black ABS plastic, and laterals of clay or concrete for the houses.

Fifty-year-old systems show predictable wear: corroded valves, failing fixtures, and drains narrowed by scale and grease.

Common calls here

• Slow kitchen drains, cleared by kitchen drain cleaning.
• Seized shut-off valves and leaking supply lines, under faucet repair.
• Water heater issues in semis and detached homes.

Rental tenants should report plumbing issues to their landlord, who is normally responsible for repairs. Homeowners and private landlords call us directly.

Flooding and sewers

Black Creek runs through the area, and some homes near the valley are on lower ground. Heavy rain can push sewers past their capacity. For houses with basements, a backwater valve and a working sump are the main protections. Our guide on how a backwater valve works explains the mechanism.

Owners of semis share a wall and sometimes part of a drain with their neighbours. A friendly conversation before any sewer work helps, since a camera may need to pass beneath both properties to find the problem. Clear information on both sides prevents disputes later.

Houses and semis in the area

Detached homes and semis around Jane and Finch generally date from the same period as the towers. Many are owner-occupied by families who have lived there for decades and done their own improvements, so we find a mix of original copper, newer plastic and occasional improvised repairs.

Improvised fixes are not a criticism; they are a clue. A drain joined with the wrong fitting or a supply line run without support explains a leak and points to what else may need attention.

Water heaters on these streets are frequently rented. When one fails, the rental provider usually replaces it, but valves, venting and drain pans are worth checking during the visit.

Families with several generations in one house use more water than an average household. A larger water heater or improved drain maintenance can make daily life smoother. Our water heater maintenance guide covers the basic yearly checks.

Getting to Jane and Finch

We reach the area from Highway 400, Jane or Finch, and the Finch West LRT now runs along Finch. Tell us about entry codes and parking when booking. See York University Heights or our enclaves.