Information around lead safety in your home
Our first priority as a landlord will always be to keep residents safe in your homes.
Some of our older homes may still contain materials that include lead, which can be harmful if disturbed or ingested. Lead was commonly used in paints, water pipes, and roof materials before regulations changed. This guide explains where lead may be found, what the risks are, and what you can do to be safe in your home.
Where lead may be present
Lead is not dangerous if it’s left alone and not damaged. It may be present in:
- Old paintwork, particularly in properties built before 1980s
- Water pipes and solder, particularly in older plumbing systems
- Roof flashings and pipe joints
- Decorative features coated with older paint layers.
When these materials are in good condition and left undisturbed, they are not a risk. Problems arise when old paint flakes or when materials containing lead are sanded, scraped, or disturbed, allowing lead dust or particles to be inhaled or swallowed.
Health risks
Lead can build up in the body over time and may cause health problems such as:
- Fatigue, headaches, or stomach pain
- Mood changes, poor attention span, headaches, hallucinations and damage to the brain and kidneys in severe cases
- Anaemia and high blood pressure
- Developmental or behavioural issues in children
- Complications during pregnancy
- Lead found in paints and pipes was classified as probably able to cause cancer in humans.
Vulnerable people
- Pregnant women, infants and young children are particularly sensitive to the harmful effects of lead
What you can do
You can help by:
- Not sanding, burning, or stripping old paint
- Reporting any flaking or damaged paint to your housing team immediately
- Avoiding DIY work such as drilling or sanding without checking with us first
If you suspect you may have been exposed to lead (for example, from dust or damaged paint), please contact your GP for advice.
If you have any concerns about lead in your home or in communal areas, get in contact with us immediately on 0330 343 0016.
