The Truth About Lead Water Pipes — Why You Should Replace Them

If your home was built before the 1950s, there’s a chance you’ve got lead water service lines connecting your house to the city supply. And if it was built before the 1980s, your interior pipes, solder, or fittings could still contain traces of lead.

That’s not just outdated — it’s potentially dangerous.

In this post, we’ll explain what lead pipes are, how to tell if you have them, and why so many homeowners across the GTA are choosing to upgrade to safer, modern piping with the help of UPR.

 Why Lead Is a Problem

Lead was once a popular plumbing material — flexible, durable, and easy to work with. But today, we know that lead exposure is harmful, especially over time. Drinking water that passes through lead pipes or fittings can absorb tiny particles of lead, which may affect:

• Brain development in children

• Kidney and nervous system function

• Blood pressure and cardiovascular health

Even low levels of lead in water can be unsafe. That’s why Health Canada and the City of Toronto both recommend replacing any remaining lead lines — immediately.

 How Do You Know If You Have Lead Pipes?

Most lead service lines were installed between 1900 and the 1950s, though some homes built as late as the 1980s may still contain lead solder or fittings. Here’s how to check:

• Service line material: Look where the pipe enters your home near the water meter. Lead pipes are dull gray, soft (easily scratched), and non-magnetic.

• Age of the home: If your house was built before 1955, and hasn’t had a full waterline replacement, you’re likely at risk.

• Water testing: You can request a water quality test from the city or through a certified lab.

Still unsure? We can inspect your system for free.

 What’s Involved in Replacing Lead Pipes?

UPR replaces lead service lines with high-quality, modern materials like Type K copper or HDPE (plastic), which are fully approved, durable, and safe.

Depending on your setup, replacement can include:

• Excavation from property line to inside your home

• Connection to existing or upgraded interior piping

• City-side coordination if the public portion still contains lead

• Full reconnection, testing, and cleanup

And in most cases, the job is done in a single day.

 Rebates and City Support

Some municipalities, offer financial support or cost-sharing programs for replacing lead pipes — especially if your neighbours are doing it too.

UPR can help guide you through the application and permitting process, ensuring your paperwork is in order and the work is code-compliant and properly inspected.

 Why It’s Worth It

Replacing lead pipes isn’t just about safety — it also improves:

• Water clarity and taste

• Water pressure and flow

• Property value and resale confidence

• Peace of mind

It’s one of those upgrades that pays off for your health, your home, and your future.

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