Lead in water

Lead can enter drinking water from pipes, plumbing and fixtures that contain lead. Even low levels can harm health, especially in infants and children.

How can I check for lead in my drinking water?

If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water:

1. Contact your water supplier. They can provide information about water quality in your area.
2. Arrange testing. Lead can enter water through plumbing inside your home, so your water supplier’s results may not reflect the water from your tap. Contact a laboratory that tests drinking water for lead.
3. If you rent, contact your landlord. Property owners are responsible for ensuring tenants have safe drinking water.

Find a laboratory that tests drinking water. Confirm that it offers lead testing before arranging a sample.

What level of lead is acceptable?

Health Canada recommends a maximum acceptable concentration of 5 micrograms per litre (µg/L), or 5 parts per billion (ppb), in drinking water. Lead levels should be kept as low as reasonably achievable because no level of lead exposure is known to be without risk. 

Need help understanding your results?

Island Health Environmental Health Officers can help interpret water quality results and provide recommendations. Contact your local Environmental Public Health Office.