Quick answer
If a water line freezes, turn off the main valve inside your house. If part of the line is exposed, warm it with a heat lamp or blow dryer. If nothing is exposed, call a plumber. The City of Surrey says never to thaw a pipe with an open flame such as a propane torch, because it can damage the pipe and may start a fire. If the water service bursts between the street and your home, shut the main valve, call a plumber, and call the City at 604-591-4152 to request an emergency turn off. Surrey says repair costs for frozen pipes are the homeowner's responsibility.
Frozen pipes can stop your water, and a pipe that has frozen can burst. This guide is based on the City of Surrey's official frozen water lines page. It covers how to prevent frozen lines, what to do if one freezes, what to do if one bursts, and who pays.
Know where your main water valve is
The City of Surrey tells homeowners to know the location of the main valve inside the house and make sure it works, in case you need to turn off the water quickly. Check it before cold weather, not during an emergency.
Tip: Tag the valve with a bright ribbon so anyone in the house can find it fast. Write 604-591-4152 (City of Surrey, water service breaks and emergency shut offs) on the tag.
How to prevent frozen water lines
The City of Surrey's prevention list includes the following:
- Insulate exposed water lines in areas such as the basement, crawl spaces, attics, garages or outside services. Surrey says insulating may include pipe sleeves, UL-listed heat tape, heat cable or similar materials on exposed pipes.
- If you leave home for a long time (for example, to travel), set your thermostat to an adequate temperature and have someone check on your home every few days for signs of water lines freezing.
- Consider a trickle if your water service has a history of freezing. Surrey suggests leaving a tap trickling or dripping to keep water moving, which may prevent freezing. The trickle should be the size of a pencil point. If the building is metered, the owner is responsible for the cost of water use.
- If frozen underground lines outside the house are an annual problem, consider lowering them in the spring to a point below the frost line.
- Turn off all outside taps and drain the lines to prevent them from freezing.
Surrey also suggests consulting a plumber for further advice or assistance.
If your water line freezes
The City of Surrey's steps apply if the water line is plugged, trickling, or no longer flowing:
- Turn off the main valve inside the house.
- Locate the exposed water service and use a heat source such as a heat lamp or blow dryer.
- If there is no exposed service, contact a plumber to investigate and resolve the issue.
- Once the suspected blockage is resolved, slowly turn on the house valve and check that water is flowing at the tap.
Safety: The City of Surrey says to never attempt to thaw a pipe using an open flame such as a propane torch, as this can not only damage the pipe but may start a fire on your property.
If your water line bursts
The City of Surrey's steps for a burst water line:
- Turn off the main valve inside the house and contact a plumber.
- If the water service ruptures between the street and your home, contact the City at 604-591-4152 to request an emergency turn off. The City's water page lists 604-591-4152 for reporting water main and service connection breaks or emergency shut offs, Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm. After hours (weekdays after 4:30pm, or Saturday and Sunday), the number listed is 604-591-4431.
- Contact a plumber to make the necessary repairs.
- Once repairs are complete, contact the City to request a turn on.
For cleanup help inside the house, see our guides on basement water cleanup and sump pumps.
Who pays in Surrey
The City of Surrey states: "Repair costs associated with frozen pipes are the responsibility of the homeowner." Its page does not break this down further, so if you are unsure where the City's responsibility ends and yours begins, ask the City directly.
Other municipalities word this differently. For example, the City of Delta says: "Anything past the water meter will be the property owner's responsibility. Delta is not responsible for detecting or locating water leaks on private property." Delta lists 604-946-3260 (Engineering) and 604-946-4141 for support after hours. If you live in another municipality, confirm with your city before you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I leave a tap dripping in cold weather?
Surrey says to consider it if your water service has a history of freezing. The trickle should be the size of a pencil point, and if the building is metered, the owner pays for the water used.
How do I thaw a frozen pipe safely?
Turn off the main valve inside the house. If the service is exposed, use a heat source such as a heat lamp or blow dryer. Never use an open flame such as a propane torch. If no part of the service is exposed, contact a plumber.
Who do I call if the water line between the street and my house bursts?
Turn off the main valve inside the house and contact a plumber. For an emergency turn off in Surrey, call the City at 604-591-4152 (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm) or 604-591-4431 after hours (weekdays after 4:30pm, Saturday and Sunday). See our Surrey emergency numbers guide for other utilities.
Can I use heat tape on a water pipe?
The City of Surrey lists UL-listed heat tape and heat cable among the materials that may be used to insulate exposed pipes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and ask a plumber if you are unsure.
Who pays for frozen pipe repairs?
The City of Surrey says repair costs associated with frozen pipes are the responsibility of the homeowner.
Official sources
- City of Surrey — Frozen Water Lines
- City of Surrey — Water Services (emergency phone numbers)
- City of Delta — Water, Sewer & Drainage
General information only, not professional advice. Rules and prices change, so check the official sources above before you act. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.