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Leaks

Our water mains aren’t made of lead. The use of lead in water pipes has been banned since the 1970s. There’s virtually no lead in the drinking water leaving our treatment works. You're unlikely to have lead pipes if your house was built after 1970. Also, if you've had all your pipework replaced since 1970. 

However, you may have a lead pipe feeding your property or in your internal plumbing. If so, small amounts of lead may dissolve into your water.

Customer fixing a leaky toilet

Leaks at home

Leaks in or on your property are your responsibility.

Our step-by-step guide advises what to do when you get a leak at home. This includes identifying leaks, checking pipe responsibility and arranging repair. 

It also covers telling us your leak is fixed, claiming leak allowance and what happens if you don't fix your leak.

Road closed sign in front of a Thames Water sign

Leaks on public pipes

We look after the public water pipes under roads and pavements.

Over 95% of leaks are never seen by customers as they’re often deep underground. Our field teams work 24/7 to locate as many leaks as possible.

You can help us by reporting public leaks when you see them.

British gas technician fixing a tap
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Stay protected against leaks with Plumbing and Drains cover

More than a million customers trust British Gas to fix leaks, drips and lots more. Join them with expert Plumbing and Drains cover for just £4.50 a month*.

  • Unlimited repairs and call-outs
  • Access to thousands of trusted engineers
  • No hidden costs with all parts and labour included
Get covered today

£4.50 a month for the first year. Homeowners and new customers only. £60 excess per completed repair. Terms and exclusions apply, see website for full details.

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