Prior to the mid-1950s, lead was commonly used to build pipes that deliver water from the street into residential homes. Lead pipes were not used in apartment and other buildings with more than six units, regardless of age. Lead is too soft to handle the pressure needed for these types of buildings.
Residents who live in homes built before the mid-1950s can submit a tap water sample to the City for testing, free of charge, to help determine the amount of lead in the water.
How it Works
The process for residents is as follows:
- Contact 311 to register for a lead testing kit. Each kit includes a water-sampling container and instructions on how to take a sample.
- Pick up your lead testing kit up at one of the following Toronto Public Health locations, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Once you have collected your water sample, please drop it off for lead testing at one of the following locations Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- 30 Dee Ave. Please walk in and drop off your water sample in the bin on the shelf just inside the front doors.
- 399 The West Mall, North Block, 4th floor. Turn right when you get off the elevator and drop off the sample in the provided bin.
- 850 Coxwell Ave., by the Security desk.
- The sample will be tested at the licensed and accredited Toronto Water laboratory.
- You will be notified of the results by email or regular mail within 30 days of the sample being received by the Toronto Water laboratory.
If you need to speak with someone, please call 416-392-0298 or email leadpipes@toronto.ca.
