Thames Water: upgrades to local pipes

Thames Water is currently carrying out work in the local area to replace older lead pipes. If you’re affected by the programme, they’ll contact you directly with further information.

In their letter, they may ask whether your home was built before 1966. If so, they might advise you to arrange for a qualified electrician to check your wiring before any work takes place. This relates to a historical practice, banned in 1966, of using water supply pipes for electrical earthing.

Please note that you do not need to arrange an additional electrical check. We already carry out electrical safety inspections in our homes every five years. Any issues with earthing would have been identified during these inspections and are monitored and addressed through our ongoing maintenance programme.

Thames Water is responsible for managing any interruptions or issues with your water supply. If you need assistance, you can contact them on 0800 316 9800.

You can find more information about our electrical testing programme here.