Lead Plumbing Risk
Potential health hazard
Older properties may have lead water pipes, which can contaminate drinking water and pose health risks, especially for children.
What This Means
Properties built before 1970 may have lead pipes that can leach lead into drinking water - a health hazard particularly for children and pregnant women.
Practical Advice
- Get FREE water testing from your water company
- Lead pipes are dull grey and soft - scratch test reveals shiny silver
- Check pipe where it enters your property (often under kitchen sink)
- Replacement grants may be available
- Cost to replace: typically £1,000-£3,000
- Use a water filter or run taps before drinking until replaced
Key Points
- What it is: Risk that property has lead pipes in plumbing system
- Why it matters: Lead in drinking water is a health hazard
- Common in properties built before 1970
- Can affect children's development and cause health issues
- Water companies will test your water for free
- Replacement grants may be available
- Cost to replace: typically £1,000-£3,000
- Check with water company about lead pipe location
Additional Information
If your property has lead pipes, consider replacement. Use a water filter or let tap run before drinking while lead pipes remain.