Back in the 1800s, the use of lead pipes was largely popular and regarded as an acceptable mode of water distribution until it was discovered that lead pipes could cause poisoning. In 1969, Building Regulations made it illegal to use lead pipes in water supplies.

The adverse effect of lead exposure is one of the major reasons people are trying to eradicate lead pipes from their water distribution systems.

Testing For Lead Pipes

Do not assume that you have lead pipes if you have not tested them. Apart from calling on an expert to check for lead pipes, you can check your service lines and distribution pipes by going to the main water supply line inside your home to check for the colour of the pipe. 

If you cannot ascertain the colour properly, gently scratch a portion of the pipe with something sharp; test if it can hold a magnet and if it appears silver or grey. If it doesn’t - you have lead pipes in your home.

How To Remove Your Lead Pipes?

Companies such as ourselves will attend and survey if you are on lead pipework. Whether this has burst, or if you have low flow in the property, we always recommend you replace your lead pipework. Please note, every Water Board works different, please discuss with your local authority their process and if they may have a lead replacement scheme in place.

Our team will attend on the day, and install a replacement MDPE pipe and disconnect your old pipework leaving it obsolete in the ground. If you are on a shared lead supply, we will need to leave your pipework coiled at the boundary for the local water board to install an external stop tap for your property. We will then return and disconnect your old supply.