This information answers the most commonly asked questions about lead. It also gives details of our free lead and common supply pipe replacement scheme.
Lead in our environment
Lead comes from many sources, such as car exhausts and old paint work. It may be naturally present in air, food, soil and in water. Lead can be harmful to health, especially for young children and unborn babies. The water from our treatment works supplied through our mains to the boundary of properties contains virtually no lead. But the water can dissolve tiny amounts of lead from the inside of lead supply pipes and internal plumbing. As a result, the water coming out of your pipe may contain more lead than the drinking water standards allow.
How do I know if I have lead pipes?
Many houses built before 1970 have lead plumbing and also a lead supply pipe which connects the property to the water main in the street. If your home was built after 1970 it is unlikely to have lead pipes. A simple check is to look at the pipework in your kitchen. Find the pipe leading to the internal stop tap (usually under the kitchen sink). Lead pipes are dark grey (under any paint) and are soft and easily marked. This is only a guide and not conclusive - always seek professional advice.
Replacing lead pipes
If you think your property's internal pipework or supply pipe is made of lead, we advise you to consider replacing them. If you apply to replace your lead supply pipe under our scheme, we will replace the lead pipes that we own free of charge. We will also connect the new supply pipe to the water main free of charge. We can only do our work when you have finished your work.
Full details can be found in our lead and common supply pipe replacement scheme section.
What type of supply pipe do I have?
Your property will be fed by one of two types of supply pipe. Click below for an explanation of each.
It is important to know which type of pipe supplies water to your property to be able to make an application for our free lead and common supply pipe replacement scheme.
To find out more information on how to apply for our free lead and common supply pipe replacement scheme as well as information for your plumber please see our useful forms and documents.