Lead Pipe Replacement
Lead Pipe Replacement Services in England
English Water specialises in delivering professional lead pipe replacement services throughout England, covering major cities and towns including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, and beyond. Due to the well-documented health risks linked to lead in drinking water, it is essential that your property's plumbing complies with modern safety standards. Our experienced team supports homeowners in improving water quality through reliable and compliant lead pipe replacement solutions.
Lead Pipes in English Homes
Lead pipes remain a common issue in properties built before 1970 across England. As these pipes age, they present a serious health concern because lead can leach into drinking water over time. If your property still relies on lead water pipes, full lead pipe replacement is the safest and most effective way to secure clean, safe drinking water.
English Water provides specialist lead pipe replacement using modern trenchless installation methods, including impact moling. This approach significantly reduces disruption while delivering durable, long-term results. Our teams operate nationwide, assisting homeowners across England with improving water safety and quality.
Responsibilities: Who Owns Which Pipe?
Water supplier: Responsible for the water main and the communication pipe, running from the main to the external stop tap.
Homeowners and landlords: Responsible for the water supply pipe from the stop tap into the property, along with all internal plumbing.
Shared supplies (such as tenements): Responsibility is shared between all connected property owners.
Lead Pipe Replacement Service – What to Expect
1. Lead Pipe Inspection and Assessment
We begin with a detailed inspection to confirm whether lead pipes are present. Our technicians assess the condition, route, and layout of the existing pipework before advising on the most appropriate lead pipe replacement approach.
2. Safe, Low-Disruption Replacement
Once identified, lead pipes are replaced with modern, approved materials. Our trenchless methods minimise excavation and surface disturbance, ensuring an efficient and controlled replacement process.
3. Compliance with Water Safety Standards
All lead pipe replacement work is carried out in accordance with current UK Water Regulations. We ensure the new installation meets all health and safety requirements, providing confidence in the safety of your drinking water.
Regulation and Water Safety Standards in England
In England, lead levels in drinking water are regulated under the Water Supply (Water Quality) (England) Regulations 2010. The current legal limit is set at 10 micrograms per litre (10 µg/L).
This represents a substantial reduction from previous limits:
- 50 µg/L in the late 1980s
- 25 µg/L by 2003
The long-term objective is to reduce lead levels as close to zero as possible, aligning with World Health Organization guidance. Public health bodies increasingly support adoption of the forthcoming EU limit of 5 µg/L, particularly to protect children and pregnant women.
Testing and Taking Action
Water testing: Free testing may be available where lead pipes are suspected. Samples are typically taken from the cold kitchen tap.
Results: If lead levels exceed 10 µg/L, or 5 µg/L from April 2025, the water supplier may replace its section once the private supply pipe has been renewed.
Replacement: Using English Water ensures all work is completed in line with UK water regulations.
Why Replace Lead Pipes?
Replacing lead pipes is vital for protecting health and improving water quality. Key reasons include:
1. Health Protection
Lead can enter drinking water from older pipework, posing significant risks, especially to children and pregnant women. Exposure has been linked to developmental and long-term health issues, making timely replacement essential.
2. Improved Water Quality
Lead pipe replacement removes the risk of contamination entirely, often resulting in noticeable improvements in water taste, clarity, and overall quality.
3. Increased Property Value
Updating a property's plumbing by removing lead pipes enhances its appeal and ensures compliance with current safety expectations, which can positively affect property value.
Mitigation While Awaiting Replacement
Although full replacement is the only permanent solution, the following temporary measures may help reduce exposure:
- Use cold water only for drinking and cooking
- Run taps for several minutes before use
- Clean tap aerators regularly
- Use point-of-use filters certified for lead removal
The Risks of Partial Lead Pipe Replacement
Replacing only part of a lead pipe—either the public or private section—can disturb accumulated lead deposits and temporarily increase contamination. For this reason, complete replacement of both sections is strongly recommended.
After Lead Pipe Replacement
Once replacement work is completed:
- Flush all cold taps for at least 30 minutes
- Remove and clean tap aerators
- Avoid using kettles or ice makers during flushing
- Notify your water supplier so any follow-up checks can be completed
Be Lead Aware and Take Action
Lead in drinking water remains a hidden risk in many older English properties. If your home was built before 1970, it may still contain a lead pipe. Taking action now by testing your water and arranging full lead pipe replacement protects your health, ensures compliance with tightening standards, and supports safer water supplies across England.
The Benefits of Lead Pipe Replacement
Replacing lead water pipes safeguards your household's health, improves drinking water quality, and helps protect property value. Lead is a hazardous material, particularly harmful to children and pregnant women. Removing it from your water supply creates a safer and healthier living environment for you and your family.
How to Start the Lead Pipe Replacement Process
Step 1 – Contact English Water: 0800 316 7322
Discuss your property with our team. We may ask:
- Whether the supply is single or shared
- The approximate age of the property
We will confirm whether the pipe is lead and explain the next steps.
Step 2 – Appoint English Water
English Water completes the private-side lead pipe replacement. For shared supplies, coordination with neighbouring properties may be required, and proof of completion may need to be provided.
Step 3 – Final Connection
Once the private supply pipe is replaced, the water supplier will typically renew the lead communication pipe in the public highway at no cost.
Contact English Water for Lead Pipe Replacement Across England
English Water is committed to helping homeowners and businesses across England remove the risks associated with lead pipes. Our professional lead pipe replacement services ensure your water supply is safe, reliable, and fully compliant with modern standards.
If your property was built before 1970 or you suspect lead pipework, contact us today for a free, no-obligation lead pipe replacement quotation.