We deal with a lot of lead pipe enquiries, and we know customers are often unsure what they're responsible for and what their water company will pay for. This page explains the basics. For advice on your own property, just get in touch.
What are lead supply pipes?
Lead was commonly used for water pipes in older properties, particularly those built before the 1970s. Many homes still have a lead supply pipe running underground from the boundary into the building, and sometimes lead pipework inside too.
Lead pipe is usually dull grey and soft. If scratched carefully it shows a shiny silver colour underneath, it isn't magnetic, and joints often look like rounded swellings rather than neat fittings. The easiest place to check is often where the pipe enters the house near the internal stop tap.
Why replace a lead pipe?
- Water quality: lead can dissolve into drinking water, especially when water has been standing in the pipe. The Drinking Water Inspectorate advises that the most effective way to reduce lead in drinking water is to replace lead pipework.
- Age and leaks: lead pipes are often many decades old and can be prone to leaks.
- Pressure and flow: old lead pipes are typically narrow, which can limit water pressure and flow.
- Peace of mind: lead pipes can be raised when buying or selling a home.
Lead pipe replacement: who is responsible?
Generally, responsibility for the underground supply is split at the boundary of the property, usually at the outside stop tap or water meter:
- Your water company is usually responsible for the pipe from the water main up to the boundary (the "communication pipe").
- The property owner is usually responsible for the pipe from the boundary into the building (the "supply pipe"), and for all the pipework inside.
Arrangements aren't always straightforward. For example, some properties share a supply pipe with neighbours, or the stop tap isn't where you'd expect. If you're unsure, we can investigate and advise.
Help from your water company. Some water companies offer assistance with lead pipe replacement, for example replacing their own section of lead pipe when you replace yours, or other support. This depends on their policies and eligibility criteria, which can change. Contact us for advice about your options before you start.
How we can help
We have extensive experience replacing lead supply pipes and coordinating the work with water suppliers, so the private and water-company sides of the job fit together. We'll:
- Confirm whether your supply is lead, and where the boundary lies
- Explain your options, including any support your water company may offer
- Replace the lead supply pipe with new MDPE pipe, from the boundary to the building
- Install a new internal stop valve and connect to your existing pipework
- Use hydraulic moling where suitable, to reduce digging
- Flush and test the new supply, and reinstate the ground neatly
WaterSafe approved
GHP South LTD is registered with WaterSafe, the national register of approved plumbing businesses. Work on drinking water supplies should be carried out by an approved contractor.