Lead

Water leaving Anglian Water treatment works and flowing through our water mains network is effectively lead-free. Where lead is found in tap water, it usually comes from old lead pipework connecting the property to the water main or in the internal plumbing of the property.  The longer water is left to stand in these pipes, the more likely it is that traces of lead will be found.

Reducing lead

The latest medical advice suggests that lead is most harmful if excessive levels are allowed to build up in the body.

It makes sense then to ensure we only consume as little lead as possible - especially in the case of pregnant women and young children.

LEAD ADVICE LINE

If you think you have lead pipes, call us for a free lead test on 0845 070 3445.

Looking out for lead pipes

Lead has been used for plumbing since Roman times. If you live in a house built before 1970, chances are you may have lead pipework. It just takes a few minutes to check:

  1. Find the point where the water pipe enters your property – it’s usually at the internal stop tap, so take a look under your kitchen sink.
  2. Unpainted lead pipes will appear dark grey or black in colour and the joint will appear swollen.
  3. The metal is soft with a dull coating. If you scrape it gently with a coin, a shiny silver strip will appear.

Lead can also be picked up from lead-based soldered pipe joints, typically used with copper pipes. It’s not necessary to remove lead solder, but it should not be used for any new plumbing as it became illegal for use in domestic plumbing in 1999.

General questions about lead

How likely is my tap water to dissolve lead?

Water in the region is generally hard and is less likely to allow lead from pipework to dissolve into it. However, where tests show increased likelihood, we have introduced processes at our treatment works.

We carry out more than 300,000 tests on water quality every year. If you have lead pipes and you would like to arrange a free lead test to measure the lead content in your tap water please call 0845 070 3445.

I’ve got lead pipes, what can I do to reduce lead levels?

Replacing lead pipes is the only sure way to eliminate lead levels completely. However, there are some quick, simple steps to help reduce the lead levels in your drinking water:

  • Only use water from the kitchen cold tap for drinking and cooking, as hot water dissolves more lead than cold.
  • Don’t drink or cook with water that has stood for a long time in the pipes. This means water standing overnight, or for several hours during the day. Run the tap for a couple of minutes before use (for a typical property where the street is no more than 40 metres from the tap, filling a washing bowl should be enough).
Where can I get additional advice and information about lead?

If you would like further information or to request a free lead test, call our lead advice line on 0845 070 3445 and we will be happy to help you.

You can also obtain information from the Drinking Water Inspectorate at www.dwi.gov.uk or from your Environmental Health Officer.  

Our Connections Team can advise on replacing customers pipework on 0845 6066087.

Qualified plumbers registered with the Institute of Plumbing can assist with pipe replacement, as can Anglian Water approved plumbers.  A list of approved plumbers and underground installers can be found on www.anglianwater.co.uk/developers/plumbers

Replacing your pipes

Pipes under the road or pavements up to the boundary of your property are usually our responsibility. The pipe from the property boundary up to and including the internal plumbing is normally the responsibility of the property owner.

If you decide to replace the lead pipework to your property, we’ll replace our bit too. The diagram below explains where the responsibilities lie.

More help and information about replacing your lead pipework can be found in our Replacement Connection fact sheet. Alternatively, you can call our Connections Team on 0845 6066087.

Anglian Water has its own Approved Plumbers scheme called ‘aplus’ with several hundred reputable plumbers and underground installers across the Anglian region.  Find details on our website www.anglianwater.co.uk/developers/plumbers or telephone our call centre on 08457 145 145.

Factsheets

 

Copyright © 2012 Anglian Water Services Ltd All rights reserved

Registered in England No. 2366656

Registered Office: Anglian House, Ambury Road, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. PE29 3NZ