Replacing lead water pipes
The municipality is asking homeowners to have the lead water pipes replaced in their homes.
Drinking water from lead pipes is not healthy. Particularly for developing children under the age of 8 and pregnant women. If young children ingest too much lead, it can affect their IQ. Adults can experience kidney problems or a slightly elevated blood pressure. Until the lead pipes have been replaced, you are advised not to drink tap water. Drink bottled water, tap water from non-lead pipes or water from a public tap.
Lead pipes
Lead pipes are often found in homes built before 1960. The use of lead pipes was banned after 1960.
Situation in The Hague
The lead pipes are being replaced in all municipal-owned buildings built before 1960. It is being done first in buildings where children under the age of 8 and pregnant women often come. The municipality is asking schools, childcare and afterschool care facilities and sport clubs to check their water pipes. And to replace them where needed.
Checking the plumbing
Check whether there are lead pipes in your home. Watch the video by drinking water company Dunea:
You do not see any lead or you are in doubt? To check the plumbing in your floors and walls, you can have your tap water tested for lead. You can arrange a test online. You will have to pay for the test yourself.
You can also arrange a test at another company. Make sure it is an authorised company.
- Are you renting your home? Ask your landlord (commercial or housing association) to have the water tested. If your landlord is not willing to cooperate, ask for assistance from the Fair Rent Team.
More information
You can find extensive information (in Dutch) on checking and replacing lead water pipes on the websites of:
GGD Haaglanden:
Dunea:
Letter to residents in different languages
Published: 27 November 2020Modified: 27 November 2020