Lead in drinking water affects homes built before the mid-1950s when residential water service pipes were commonly made of lead. Lead was also used to solder pipes together before 1990.
Apartment buildings and other multi-residential buildings with more than six units do not have lead pipes, regardless of age. Lead is too soft to handle the pressure needed for these types of buildings.
Toronto Public Health recommends replacing both sides of the pipe as the best way to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water and to protect your health. Water service pipes are owned by the homeowner and by the City, visit the City of Toronto website for more information on Lead & Drinking Water.
If you live in a home built before the mid-1950s, it is strongly recommended that you replace the private portion of the pipe to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water. A licensed plumber is the best way to determine if your water service pipe is lead. They will likely need to enter your basement to make a visual inspection of the pipe. You can also contact 311 to submit a service request to have staff check City records. This process may take up to 30 business days. The City also offers free lead testing to help determine if you have lead in your water.