Introduction
Burnaby is the third-largest city in British Columbia, with a 2021 population of 249,125. Despite covering only about 3% of Metro Vancouver’s land area, it’s home to 10% of the region’s residents. From the lowlands along the Fraser River to high-rise towers on Burnaby Mountain, the city’s geography and diverse housing stock create unique plumbing needs. This guide explores Burnaby’s water, common plumbing issues, seasonal concerns, costs, regulations, and practical tips for homeowners and strata councils.
Water Source, Quality & Hardness
- Water source: Burnaby’s drinking water is supplied by Metro Vancouver, drawn from the protected Capilano, Seymour, and Coquitlam watersheds.
- Water quality: High-quality, chlorine-treated water is tested multiple times daily across the system (Metro Vancouver).
- Soft water: Burnaby water averages ~0.3 grains per gallon, among the softest in Canada. This minimizes scale in fixtures and appliances, but older metal piping may corrode more quickly.
- Pressure zones: Elevation changes across Burnaby—from Big Bend at river level to SFU atop Burnaby Mountain—create significant variation in pressure. Many buildings require pressure-reducing valves, while high-rises rely on booster pumps.
Common Plumbing Issues in Burnaby
- High-rise plumbing challenges
Towers in Metrotown, Brentwood, and Lougheed rely on vertical stacks and booster systems. Failures can disrupt water to entire floors or cause multi-unit damage. - Aging infrastructure in older homes
Post-war bungalows in South Burnaby and East Burnaby often still use galvanized steel or cast iron pipes, which corrode and clog with age. Sewer laterals are also prone to tree root intrusion. - Stormwater flooding
Burnaby receives ~1,200 mm of rainfall annually, with Big Bend and other low-lying areas especially vulnerable. Blocked drains or failed sump pumps can quickly lead to basement flooding. - Cold snap risks
Although winters are mild, cold snaps below –10 °C have caused widespread burst pipes in exposed crawlspaces and outdoor hose bibs. - Cross-connection control
Irrigation systems, fire sprinklers, and commercial kitchens must comply with the City’s backflow prevention regulations. Annual testing is mandatory for devices.
Seasonal Considerations
- Fall/Winter: Heavy rainfall and saturated soils put drainage systems under strain. Test sump pumps and inspect backwater valves.
- Spring: Snowmelt from Burnaby Mountain increases groundwater levels—important for homes with older perimeter drains.
- Summer: Metro Vancouver watering restrictions limit outdoor use. Violations can result in fines.
- Climate change: Atmospheric rivers and more intense rainfall events are expected. Upgrading perimeter drains and adding water-saving fixtures help homeowners adapt.
Housing Stock & Plumbing Materials
- Single-family homes: Many pre-1970s homes in Burnaby Heights, South Slope, and East Burnaby still have original galvanized or cast iron systems.
- Condominiums & towers: Dominant in Metrotown, Brentwood, and Edmonds. Shared stacks and booster pump systems require proactive strata maintenance.
- New builds: Use PEX and modern fixtures, but still fall under city permits and inspection requirements.
Plumbing Costs in Burnaby
Service costs align with Metro Vancouver standards. Minimum charge is $249 before tax.
| Service | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unclog a drain | $249 | $350 | $600+ |
| Replace a faucet | $249 | $400 | $800+ |
| Hot water tank replacement | $1,200 | $1,800 | $3,000+ |
| Emergency after-hours call | $400 | $600 | $1,000+ |
⚠️ Estimates disclaimer: Costs exclude permits, after-hours premiums, and materials.
Local Regulations & Permits
- Plumbing permits: Required for new installations, drainage work, and major replacements. See City of Burnaby plumbing permits.
- Backflow prevention: Mandatory for irrigation, fire sprinklers, and certain commercial setups. See the Backflow Prevention Device Permit.
- Water & sewer services: Contact Burnaby Engineering Dispatch for emergencies (604-294-7200). For pressure/flow information, call the Water Division at 604-294-7221 (City Water & Sewers).
- City Hall: 4949 Canada Way, Burnaby, BC V5G 1M2. Main line: 604-294-7944.
Case Study: Big Bend Basement Flooding
Case Study: Basement Flooding in South Burnaby
A family living in a low-lying neighbourhood near the Fraser River in Burnaby experienced repeated basement flooding during heavy winter storms. Each year, water backed up through floor drains, damaging flooring and storage. In 2022, they invested in a plumber-installed sump pump and a backwater valve. When the atmospheric river hit later that year, their basement stayed dry and they avoided thousands of dollars in restoration costs. The family now schedules annual inspections of the sump pump to ensure it will continue protecting their home during future storms.
FAQs (Burnaby-specific)
Is Burnaby tap water safe to drink?
Yes. It comes from Metro Vancouver’s mountain watersheds and is tested daily.
Why do Burnaby high-rises have water pressure issues?
They rely on booster pumps. Failures or poor maintenance can disrupt supply to multiple units.
Do I need a permit for plumbing renovations in Burnaby?
Yes, if adding or modifying drains, installing backflow devices, or replacing systems beyond like-for-like fixture swaps.
How do I protect my basement during heavy rain?
Maintain drains, test sump pumps, and consider installing a backwater valve—especially in flood-prone neighbourhoods like Big Bend.
Who do I call for a water emergency in Burnaby?
For city water or sewer emergencies, call 604-294-7200. For permits and inspections, call 604-294-7130.
Tips for Burnaby Homeowners
- Replace galvanized steel and cast iron pipes before they fail.
- Test backflow prevention devices annually.
- For strata buildings, ensure booster pumps and vertical stacks are inspected regularly.
- Install leak detection alarms in basements or mechanical rooms.
- Use water-efficient fixtures to comply with restrictions and save on utility costs.
Conclusion
Burnaby’s mix of high-rises, older bungalows, and new developments means plumbing issues vary widely across the city. With very soft water, heavy rain, and pressure changes by elevation, homeowners need proactive maintenance to prevent costly emergencies.
👉 Book a licensed plumber in Burnaby today at unclogit.com or call 604-496-1661.
