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Lead Pipe Replacement Scheme

Getting your lead pipes replaced

Watch our video to find out more about getting your lead pipes replaced.

If your supply pipe is made of lead, we would advise you consider replacing it. 

Under the lead pipe replacement scheme, we may be able to offer a free like for like connection of a replacement water supply pipe (ie same size), from your boundary to the water main in the road or footpath.

Please note you’ll need to replace all of the pipework up to the boundary of your property, and you will be responsible for the costs related to this part of the work.

Watch our video on 'How to replace your lead pipework' for more information.

Below is information on how the scheme works and how to apply. We would advise that you don’t start work until your application has been accepted.

If you need help completing this form, please call us on 0345 072 6082 and select option 1.

  • You can apply for the scheme if the following applies:

    • You have a lead supply pipe, this is either a single or common supply (a water pipe that supplies water to two or more properties using a shared stop tap).

    • You are the owner of the property on a lead supply where the water is used for domestic purposes, drinking, cooking, washing, food preparation.

    • Your property has not been demolished or has not been/going to be split into multiple dwellings.

    • Your property has an existing water supply and is not a new build and it’s not too far from a water main.

    • You must have an active billing account with United Utilities

  • In order to complete the application form you will need:

    • Your United Utilities’ account number for the property where the work is taking place. 

    • Information on your water supply pipe, you will need to know it’s a single or common supply (a water pipe that supplies water to two or more properties using a shared stop tap). If you’re unsure, a plumber will be able to check it for you.

    Apply now

  • We’ll review your application and, if you’re accepted onto the scheme, we’ll send the instructions and guidance for installing the pipework within your boundary. 

    Please ensure you answer all questions in the application as incomplete information can cause delays. 

    We aim to process the application within 10 working days of receipt. On occasion we’ll need to complete further additional checks which may take more time, we’ll let you know if this happens.

    If your application is rejected, we will explain why this is the case. For example, your property may be too far from the nearest water main or street restrictions may prevent us from carrying out replacement works.

  • You’ll need to install the pipework within your boundary and it will need be certified. All pipework should comply with the current Water Supply Regulations 1999. You can use a WaterSafe approved plumber to do the work. They can then supply a WaterSafe certificate for the pipework.

    If you use a non-WaterSafe approved plumber or complete the work yourself, we’ll need to inspect the pipework before it can be connected, please call us on 0345 072 6082 to arrange an inspection. If the first inspection fails, a charge may be applied for subsequent inspections.

  • We’ll arrange the connection of your new pipework on a date that's convenient for you.

    We aim to complete the work within six weeks. It may take longer for non-standard connections or if work is needed on the United Utilities’ network or permits and assessments are required. We’ll keep you updated on any changes to the timescales.

  • If you’re on your own supply (single supply), we’ll disconnect your old supply when we complete the new connection. 

    If you are on a shared or common supply, your plumber will need to complete the disconnection from the shared supply where it joins to the shared section of the common supply pipe.