Fixtures and systems we work on
- Commercial flush valves on toilets and urinals: diaphragms, handles, sensors.
- Sensor and metering faucets in public washrooms.
- Lunchroom sinks, under-counter dishwashers and boiling-water taps.
- Small tank and point-of-use water heaters.
- Mop sinks, floor drains and trap primers.
- Supply leaks above drop ceilings and inside chase walls.
Signs a tenant space needs a plumber
- A urinal or toilet that runs constantly or will not flush.
- Stained ceiling tiles below a washroom or kitchenette.
- A sewer smell from a dry floor drain.
- Lukewarm water at washroom sinks.
- Low pressure at one fixture while the rest are fine.
Plumber's tip: Most retail and office units share risers and shut-offs with neighbours. Before we close a valve, we confirm with the landlord or building staff which units it feeds.
How we schedule tenant work
- Give the desk the unit number, what is broken and when staff or customers are inside.
- We confirm access and who approves the work: tenant, landlord or manager.
- Parts for common flush valves and faucets come on the first visit when we can identify the model.
- Water is shut off only to the affected area, for as short a window as possible.
- Every fixture we touched is run and checked; ceiling tiles are pulled to confirm the leak is dry.
- Notes go to whoever is paying, with photos where useful.
Fit-outs and changes of use
- Adding a washroom or kitchenette usually needs permits and drawings; check with the City before work is booked.
- Existing drains and venting decide where new fixtures can go.
- A food or medical use may bring grease or backflow requirements with it.
Where we see these calls
Office towers near Yonge and Sheppard, plaza units along Finch and Steeles, and street-front shops on Bathurst and Avenue Road all ring the same bell: a washroom down, a ceiling dripping or no hot water at the staff sink. The tools are the same as at a house; the rules about access and shut-offs are what change.
Job at a glance
| Category | Commercial |
|---|---|
| Tools | Diaphragm kits for flushometers, sensor tap solenoids, moisture meter, ladder, tile lifter |
| Final test | Every touched fixture cycled ten times with dry ceiling space below |
Tell-tale signs
- Urinal or toilet running nonstop
- Ceiling tile stained under a washroom
- Dry floor drain letting in sewer gas
Steps on the job
- Confirm which units the shut-off feeds
- Isolate only the affected fixtures
- Rebuild or replace the flush valve or faucet
- Run fixtures and pull tiles to check for drips
Your questions on this one
Can you fix a flush valve on the first visit?
Often, when the brand and model can be identified from a photo or the call. Uncommon valves may need a second trip for parts.
Who do you report to in a leased unit?
Whoever booked and approved the work. Tell the desk if the landlord or property manager should get a copy.