Lead Sampling

To keep you safe, we regularly test the taps of private homes and businesses for lead. This program follows Ontario's Safe Drinking Water Act and helps us identify and reduce lead in the water system. Lead piping can be a hidden health risk in older buildings that you might not know about.

Why do we test for lead?

Lead can seep into drinking water through old plumbing materials, especially in buildings constructed before 1990. Regular testing protects everyone's health, especially children and pregnant women who are more sensitive to lead.

While Niagara Falls has historically low lead levels in its water system, lead is still possible in older buildings. Testing your water is a smart way to protect your health.

How and when is water tested?

Our qualified staff visit selected homes and businesses between 8 am and 4 pm to collect water samples. The sampling process takes about 35-40 minutes and involves taking two samples from a frequently used tap, like the kitchen sink. These samples are then sent to a certified laboratory for analysis.

We sample twice a year during a two-week window: once from mid-December to mid-April and then again from mid-June to mid-October.

Who can participate?

We encourage all residents and business owners to participate, especially if:

• Your property was built before 1955, as it may have lead pipes
• Your property was built before 1990, as it might have lead-based solder in the plumbing

If you're interested in volunteering for the lead testing program or have any questions, please contact the Water and Wastewater Services Compliance Program Manager, at 905-356-7521 x 6209 or [email protected].

Schools, private schools and childcare centres

If you own or operate a school, private school or childcare centre you must flush your plumbing regularly and sample your water to test for lead.

• Visit the Government of Ontario website to learn more about flushing and sampling for lead and rules in schools, private schools, and childcare centres.

How do I get the results, and what do I do if lead is found?

If lead is found in the sample you can expect the following:

1. The City will notify the property owner of the lead exceedance results
2. The City will notify the Medical Officer of Health, as per Provincial legislation
3. Recommendations received from the Medical Officer of Health will be provided to the property owner
4. Actions taken on private property to repair, replace, alter or change private plumbing are the property owner’s responsibility and at their expense