Water quality and monitoring
Monitoring the quality of water from domestic and private water supplies
We monitor the quality of water from domestic and private water supplies in certain cases.
Drinking water
All drinking water in homes and public places must meet the required “wholesome” standard. Scottish water is responsible for monitoring the quality of the water supplied to your home if you are on a public supply. If you are on a private water supply your water may need routine testing.
If you are concerned about the quality of water at your home, workplace, or elsewhere in South Lanarkshire, Environmental Health Officers may be able to take samples. These samples are tested against national microbiological and chemical standards, and action may be taken if improvements are needed.
Lead in drinking water
Lead does not naturally occur in significant levels in Scotland’s water supplies. However, drinking water can become contaminated when it passes through:
- lead supply pipes
- lead storage tanks
- lead solder joints on copper pipes
- poor‑quality brass fittings or taps
This is more likely when water sits in the system for long periods (overnight, weekends, holidays).
If you think your property may have lead pipes, the council encourages you to:
- investigate whether lead is present
- replace any lead pipework
- take short‑term precautions to reduce exposure
Information on the health effects of lead exposure is available on the NHS Inform website.