Lead Pipework
Lead Pipework | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Manchester
Nestled in the heart of Manchester, HEP’s specialist team turns ageing lead pipework into modern, high-performance water lines that you can trust. Our fully accredited engineers map out every inch of your existing supply, remove hazardous lead, and fit WRAS-approved materials that boost flow, pressure and water purity—often in a single day. It’s a seamless experience designed to restore confidence in your tap water while adding long-term value to your property.
From the first home survey to the final flush, we keep you in the loop with clear pricing, tidy workmanship and a workmanship guarantee that’s as solid as the new pipe itself. If you’ve been searching for stress-free pipe upgrades backed by local expertise and friendly support, let HEP bring fresh, safe water to your doorstep—without the upheaval.
FAQs
Why should I replace my old lead pipework?
Lead is a toxic metal; when it leaches into drinking water it can damage the nervous system, kidneys and brain, with young children and pregnant women most at risk. Upgrading to modern, lead-free pipework immediately eliminates this health hazard, improves water taste and clarity, reduces the chance of leaks and burst pipes, and adds value to your property by bringing it in line with current regulations and mortgage-lender expectations.
How can I tell if my Manchester property still has lead pipes?
If your home was built before 1970 there’s a good chance the original supply is lead. Exposed lead pipe has a dull grey colour and, if lightly scraped with a coin, shows shiny silver metal underneath; it is also soft enough to dent. You might find it at the incoming stop-tap under the kitchen sink or in the cellar. United Utilities can perform a free water test for lead, and we offer complimentary visual surveys to confirm whether replacement is needed.
What materials do you use for pipe upgrades and what are the benefits?
For the external supply we install blue MDPE (medium-density polyethylene) pipe, the industry standard for new connections: it is flexible, corrosion-proof and has a design life of 100 years. Internally we generally switch to copper or barrier-protected plastic pipework that meets BS 7291. These materials are WRAS-approved, do not affect water taste, maintain strong pressure and are far less prone to bursts during winter freezes.
Will I need permission or permits to replace lead supply pipes in Manchester?
On private property no formal permit is required, but any work that connects to the public main must comply with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. As WaterSafe-approved plumbers we notify United Utilities on your behalf and arrange the final connection inspection. If we need to excavate on the pavement or highway we obtain Section 50 permits from Manchester City Council and reinstate the surface to council standards.
How much does a typical lead pipe replacement cost and are there grants or schemes available?
Costs depend on pipe length, access and reinstatement, but for an average Manchester semi-detached home prices range from £1,200 to £2,500 including all labour, materials and connection fees. United Utilities runs a Lead Replacement Scheme that may cover part of the external supply if neighbouring properties upgrade at the same time. Some customers qualify for means-tested assistance or 0% finance plans—we’ll guide you through every funding option before work starts.
How long will the work take and will my water supply be disrupted?
Using trenchless moling equipment we can usually replace the entire supply in one day, drilling small launch pits rather than digging full-length trenches. Internal pipework changes may add a few hours. Your water will be off for 1–2 hours while we switch over; we always schedule the shut-off at a convenient time and restore the area to a clean, tidy condition. All installations are pressure-tested and come with a 25-year workmanship warranty.