Prospective homebuyers want to see greater transparency about lead in homes in pre-sale surveys, research by WaterSafe, the UK register of approved plumbers, shows.

The national survey¹ found 82 per cent of homeowners believe it is important for home surveys to include checks for lead pipes - with almost half (48 per cent) saying it is very important. 

Business owners also called for property surveys to check for lead pipes, with 50 per cent saying it is very important and 42 per cent saying it is fairly important. Only one per cent said it is not at all important.

The findings echo concerns recently raised by Chief Inspector of the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) Marcus Rink, who said all fittings, taps and solder should be checked, in addition to pipes.

He said: “Water supply elements should be included in homebuyers’ reports as standard, so that when someone buys a property, they have clear information on the type of water supply and whether there is any legacy lead in the property’s water system.”

Lead exposure is particularly harmful to children, affecting development, behaviour and long‑term health.

WaterSafe’s research also showed 35 per cent of those surveyed believe sellers should be legally required to replace lead pipes before a sale is completed, while 23 per cent think it should be the buyer’s choice.

Jonathan Samuel, Managing Director of WaterSafe, explains: “The public is sending a very clear message: they want lead risks identified before they buy a home, and they expect action when lead pipes or the illegal use of lead solder in water fittings are found. 

“Including these checks in homebuyer surveys would give families the confidence and information they need to make safe decisions.”

He added: “I would advise homeowners to always use a WaterSafe-registered plumber.  Our research shows WaterSafe plumbers are far less likely to carry or use leaded solder or materials in their tool bag and are more aware of the health risks of lead in drinking water than the general plumber population.

“If you are having plumbing work carried out, always ask your plumber if they are using lead-free materials.”

Lead solder has been banned for use in drinking water systems for more than 30 years, yet cases continue to emerge where it has been used illegally, including in newly built or recently refurbished homes. 

Although leaded solder can be used legally in closed circuit heating systems, WaterSafe is urging all plumbers to pledge to only carry and use lead-free solder, to avoid potentially harmful mistakes.

More advice and a register of approved plumbers can be found at watersafe.org.uk.

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¹ 2,000 UK homeowners and 200 businesses surveyed via OnePoll, November 2025.