What's the issue with lead pipes?

What's the issue?

When water leaves our treatment works and water mains it doesn’t contain any lead. However, water can pick up traces of lead if it flows through old lead pipework. Lead can be found in the pipework which goes from the water main to the inside of your home. Lead can also be found in brass fittings and lead-based solder used on copper pipes. 

Traces of lead in your water can be harmful because of the way it can build up in the body. Those particularly at risk are pregnant mothers and children under the age of six, as lead can have an adverse impact on mental development.

The World Health Organisation advises that there is no safe level of lead in drinking water. If you’re concerned about lead in your water system, we recommend you consult your GP for further advice.

As it is best to minimise your level of lead intake as much as possible, we think it’s best to remove the lead pipe and replace it, which is why we are offering to upgrade your pipes for free*.

Why do I qualify?

We’ve selected certain households that we believe may have pipework made of lead. Some houses in your area were built before 1970, where lead pipes were installed.

Therefore, we want to help improve your water quality by helping to eradicate traces of lead in your water that comes from your pipe and overall, support the long-term health of your pipework. You’ve been specifically chosen as we believe your house qualifies.