Last reviewed:

When the water leaves our treatment works it contains virtually no lead. However, if you have a lead pipe feeding your property or internal plumbing, small amounts of lead may dissolve in the water.

Is there likely to be lead in my water?

Lead is commonly found in the environment and can  come from sources such as vehicle exhaust fumes and old paint. Lead can also be present in food, water, air and soil, and is able to build up over time in the human body which can have health implications.

There are no significant levels  of lead present in the drinking water we supply as it leaves our treatment works. The network of mains, which transports the water to your tap, are not made from lead.

However, lead pipes have been used at some individual properties to connect the domestic system to the mains. Over time, lead can come out of these pipes and enter the drinking water supply for that property.

Additionally, lead can also be found in some copper piping where two metals have been fused together.. Lead pipes were used up to the 1970s to connect individual properties to the water mains, and were also used for the internal plumbing. If your home was built before 1970 then it may contain lead pipes, but if your home was built after 1970 then it is unlikely.

The pipe connecting the water main to your cold kitchen tap is called a service pipe and comprises of two parts - the communication pipe and the supply pipe. We are responsible for the communication pipe and the property owner is responsible for the supply pipe. If your service pipe is made of lead we recommend it is replaced.

Find out more information about lead:

You can find out about the water quality in your area by entering your post code online.

Check the water quality in your area

Also in this section

Lead in your environment How to check for lead pipes Replacing lead pipes Checklist for replacing lead pipes