Do you still have lead water pipes in your home? Then have them removed

Homes built before 1960 may have lead water pipes. Small lead particles can be released in these pipes and enter drinking water. Too much lead in drinking water is not healthy. Therefore, it is important to replace lead pipes.

If you live in a house built before 1960, you will receive a letter from the municipality about this. If you live in a house built after 1960, you need not worry because lead water pipes have been banned since 1960.

Health risks

Research shows that too much lead in drinking water can be bad for health. Especially in babies, young children and pregnant women. Too much lead in drinking water can then affect brain and nervous system development. For older children and adults, too much lead intake can also lead to cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease.

How do you recognize lead pipes?

The WML has already replaced all the lead water pipes up to the water meter in your home.

You can check yourself if your home still has water pipes made of lead. These pipes are gray in color and have an irregular shape. When tapping on a lead pipe, you will hear a duller sound than with a copper or iron pipe. Watch this video from water company Dunea for tips.

Who is responsible?

If you own property, you are responsible for your pipes. Do you still have lead pipes? Then have them replaced; it is better for your health. Ask a licensed installer, such as a plumber, to do this.

Even for rental properties, the homeowner is responsible for replacement. If you rent your home, you can ask your landlord to replace the lead water pipes. If the landlord does not want to replace the pipes, you can appeal to the Rent Commission or the courts. The rent commission can reduce your rent until the pipes are replaced.

Learn more

Want to learn more about health risks, recognizing lead pipes and replacing them or your rights as a tenant? Then visit www.milieucentraal.nl/lodenleidingen. You can also find information on WML's website.