Switching from bottled to tap water Water safety FAQs

How safe is UK tap water?

UK tap water is among the safest in the world

Independent tests show UK tap water is among the safest in the world. The Drinking Water Inspectorate reported a 99.96% compliance with standards by UK water companies in 2006.

Contamination is rare, usually caused by local pollution, such as old pipes, not the water supply. However, don’t drink or cook with water from a hot-water system or bathroom taps. It usually comes from a storage tank and isn’t as fresh or safe as mains water from cold water taps.

If your drinking water is discoloured or has a bad smell or taste, contact your water company immediately.

Is it true that tap water is recycled from sewage?

No. Our drinking water is sourced from natural underground wells, reservoirs, lakes and rivers. Water is carefully treated to remove any contaminants that may be found in these sources. 

Can tap water contain dangerous levels of lead?

According to the latest figures, less than 0.5% of UK drinking water contained lead in unacceptable amounts. Build-ups can affect the nervous system and child development. 

Natural lead deposits do occur, but lead pipes in older homes, often those built before 1970, are a more likely cause. The Drinking Water Inspectorate website advises on how to check your pipes.

Is it safe to keep refilling my bottle from the tap?

It’s safe to keep refilling your bottle from the tap, but wash it regularly

It’s safe to keep refilling your bottle from the tap, provided that you wash it regularly to get rid of any bacteria. Avoid touching the tap with your bottle, as bacteria could be passed on this way.

Should I be concerned if my water isn't clear?

If your water is discoloured, don’t assume it’s safe to drink until you have advice from your water company. The most usual cause is disturbance of mineral deposits that can happen, for example, when water flow speed changes. Also, chalk deposits or excess air can turn water white.

Leave white water to stand: it will clear from the bottom up if it’s caused by excess air. Hard water that contains a lot of dissolved minerals, such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, can be milky or have brown deposits, but it isn’t harmful. Using a water filter can reduce minerals.

Is there fluoride in my water, and is it harmful?

Fluoride is present in drinking water from areas with high natural fluoride levels in the rock. And some water companies add small amounts of fluoridation chemicals to prevent tooth decay, but they must meet strict standards to ensure they’re not harmful. 

The maximum fluoride concentration allowed is 1.5mg/litre, whether it’s present naturally or added. Your water company will tell you whether local water has added fluoride and the concentration level.

Where can I go for more information?

• Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), 020 7270 3370
  For information about drinking water and water quality in your area
• Consumer Council for Water, 0121 345 1000
  For complaints and enquiries about local water companies and to register your experiences on getting tap water in cafés and restaurants
• Waste Watch, 020 7549 0300
  For information on recycling and reducing waste