If your property was built before 1970, there’s a chance it could still have lead water pipes lurking beneath the surface. With growing awareness around lead contamination and increasing scrutiny from local authorities, landlords across the UK are being urged to take action.
Why Lead Pipes Are a Problem
Lead was commonly used in plumbing systems until it was phased out in the 1970s. Unfortunately, in many older homes (particularly those in the private rental sector) sections of lead pipework may still remain.
When water sits in these pipes, especially overnight, it can absorb trace amounts of lead. Over time, this can pose serious health risks. Exposure to lead has been linked to developmental problems in children, low birth weight, kidney issues, and high blood pressure in adults. There’s no safe level of lead in drinking water—any presence is considered a health hazard.
As tenants become more health-conscious and local councils step up property inspections, landlords need to stay ahead of the curve.
Do Landlords Have a Legal Duty to Replace Lead Pipes?
There’s currently no universal legal requirement across the UK for landlords to automatically replace lead pipes. However, various housing laws and standards may still impose indirect obligations. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
Section 11 of this Act requires landlords to maintain the water supply in good working order. While it doesn’t specifically mention lead pipes, if they’re causing low water pressure or contamination, this could be grounds for enforcement.
2. Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
This government framework assesses potential hazards in rented homes. Lead in drinking water is classed as a Category 1 hazard, which means local councils can serve Improvement Notices demanding remedial work, including pipe replacement.
3. The Repairing Standard (Scotland)
In Scotland, new rules from March 2024 make it clear: rented homes must have a lead-free water supply. If the pipework fails this standard, landlords will be legally required to upgrade it to ensure compliance.
What Happens if You Ignore the Issue?
Failure to act could lead to serious consequences. If a tenant complains or a local authority inspects the property, landlords could face:
- Legal enforcement under HHSRS or fitness-for-habitation regulations
- Fines, Improvement Notices, or even prohibition orders
- Reputational damage and tenant disputes
- Higher insurance premiums or difficulty securing cover
Beyond legal implications, there’s also a strong moral duty. Landlords are responsible for providing safe, habitable living conditions—and water safety is a core part of that.
Does Your Property Still Have Lead Pipes?
Not sure what your pipework is made of? Here are some tell-tale signs of lead plumbing:
- Your property was built before the 1970s
- Pipework has a dull grey colour and scratches easily
- You’ve received warnings from your water supplier
- Water tastes metallic or has low pressure
The best course of action is to have a professional plumber carry out a thorough inspection and test the water supply. However if you’re eager to know and struggling to spot if you have lead pipes you can find out how in our related lead pipe guide.
Steps Landlords Should Take Now
Even if you’re not legally required to replace lead pipes in every case, taking early action is a smart move – legally, ethically, and financially. Here’s a recommended approach:
- Inspect the property, especially if built before 1970.
- Test the water or request records from the local water supplier.
- Book a professional assessment with a WIAPS-approved plumber.
- Replace internal lead pipework if it’s present.
- Coordinate with the water company if lead is found in the external supply pipe (many offer free replacements up to the property boundary).
The lead pipe replacement process is simple and doesn’t costs as much as you’d think.
Can Water Companies Help With Costs?
Yes! Several UK water companies offer lead pipe replacement schemes, especially if lead levels exceed 10 micrograms per litre (µg/l). For example:
United Utilities, Thames Water, Yorkshire Water, Severn Trent and others may cover the cost of replacing the communication pipe (from the mains to the boundary).
As the landlord, you’re typically responsible for the internal pipework, from the boundary into the property.
It’s worth contacting your local supplier to see what support is available. Some may even contribute to the cost of internal replacement if you’re replacing your part at the same time.
Why Replacing Lead Pipes is a Smart Investment
Beyond compliance, lead pipe replacement offers long-term benefits:
- Improves tenant health and wellbeing
- Boosts your property’s value and appeal
- Reduces the risk of fines or complaints
- Future-proofs your property against regulation changes
- Enhances your reputation as a responsible, safety-first landlord
Tenants are increasingly savvy when it comes to property standards—and those providing clean, lead-free water will always have an edge in a competitive rental market.
Compliance & Consideration for Tenants
While the current legal landscape may not explicitly demand the immediate removal of all lead pipework in rented properties, the direction of travel is clear. Regulations are tightening, health risks are well-documented, and tenants are more aware than ever.
As a landlord, acting now shows responsibility, foresight, and a genuine commitment to tenant safety.
Worried About Lead Pipes in Your Property?
Let Tiger Utilities help. Our expert plumbers are WIAPS-accredited and fully qualified to assess, replace, and certify lead pipework in compliance with all UK water regulations.
Get in touch today to arrange an inspection and take the first step towards a safer, healthier home for your tenants.
