Is There Hidden Lead in Your Drinking Water?
What You Need to Know.

You probably take for granted that the water flowing from your tap is safe to drink. And you’d be right to – the UK has some of the highest drinking water quality standards in the world! But there’s a hidden danger we at WaterSafe are urging plumbers and homeowners alike to be aware of: lead solder.

You might be thinking, “Isn’t lead solder banned?” And yes, you’re absolutely right! Since the 1970s, it’s been illegal to use lead solder on drinking water systems due to its harmful effects, especially on vulnerable groups like babies and young children. Exposure to lead can affect development, IQ and even cause behavioural problems.

So, if it’s banned, why are we talking about it? In a recent WaterSafe podcast, our Director Julie Spinks revealed that two-thirds of plumbers still carry lead solder in their toolkits, alongside lead-free options. While it’s perfectly legal to use lead solder for non-drinking water systems (like central heating), the risk of accidental cross-contamination is simply too high.

Imagine this: a plumber is working quickly. In the heat of the moment, a mistake could be made, and lead solder is used accidentally to join your drinking water pipes. As plumber Ruben Duggan, a WorldSkills silver medallist, highlighted in the podcast:

“It’s a two-minute mistake… that joint can affect the drinking water system forever.”

We've seen real-world examples of this. One water company found up to 180 micrograms of lead per litre in drinking water at a school kitchen, where the legal standard is just 10 micrograms per litre. This was partly traced back to new plumbing work where lead joints had been used under the sink, supplying the drinking water tap. The same company also identified a stop tap where the brass contained lead. These are completely preventable problems!

What can you do?

Ask your plumber if they use lead-free solder: Have the conversation, you might be surprised! Encourage them to listen to the podcast and take the WaterSafe pledge to stay lead-free.

Choose a WaterSafe-approved plumber: Every plumber registered with WaterSafe is qualified in plumbing and, crucially, in the water regulations that keep your home water safe. You can find one near you at watersafe.org.uk.

Listen to and share our podcast to raise awareness: Lead-free podcast

Support the move to lead-free: Encourage your friends and family to ask them to ask their plumber to take the WaterSafe pledge.

At WaterSafe, we’re championing a simple solution: plumbers should only carry and use lead-free solder. By eliminating lead solder from their toolboxes entirely, we can eliminate the risk of accidental contamination and ensure your drinking water remains as safe as it should be.

#NotInMyBag