If your home was built before the 1950s, there’s a chance your plumbing could still contain lead pipes—and you might not even know it. Across Hamilton, many older properties still rely on outdated service lines and internal pipes that pose serious health risks. In this blog post, we’ll break down how to spot lead pipes, why they’re dangerous, and how Greg’s Plumbing helps Hamilton homeowners replace them safely and efficiently.
Why Are Lead Pipes a Problem?
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into your drinking water—especially as pipes age, corrode, or become damaged. Even at low exposure levels, lead can cause:
- Developmental issues in children
- Behavioral and learning problems
- High blood pressure
- Kidney damage
- Neurological disorders
There is no safe level of lead in drinking water, which is why both the City of Hamilton and Health Canada recommend immediate replacement of lead plumbing components.
How to Tell If You Have Lead Pipes
Here are a few ways to determine if your home may have lead pipes:
- Check the age of your home: Built before 1955? You’re at higher risk.
- Look at the water line: Lead pipes are dull grey and easily scratched with a coin.
- Try a magnet test: If a magnet doesn’t stick, it might be lead (as lead is non-magnetic).
- Watch for discolored or metallic-tasting water—a possible sign of corrosion.
Still not sure? Greg’s Plumbing offers inspections to confirm if your service lines or interior pipes are lead, and we’ll walk you through your replacement options.
What Is Hamilton Doing About Lead?
The City of Hamilton has an active Lead Service Line Replacement Program, but it only covers the city-owned portion of your water service line. As the homeowner, you’re responsible for replacing the private side—which is just as important for safety. The city does offer loan options to make this process more feasible.
If you plan to replace your side, the City may coordinate to replace theirs at the same time—making the process more efficient. It’s smart to plan both together, and we can help you navigate that.
How Greg’s Plumbing Can Help
At Greg’s Plumbing, we specialize in lead pipe replacement across Hamilton and the surrounding areas, offering:
- Fast, no-obligation inspections
- Trenchless and minimally disruptive replacement methods
- Full permit handling and city coordination
- Safe disposal of old lead materials
We’re fully licensed, insured, and trusted by Hamilton homeowners for over 15 years. When it comes to replacing lead pipes, you don’t want to cut corners—and we don’t either.
Don’t Wait—Lead Pipes Are a Health Emergency
Lead contamination is serious—and so are the risks of waiting. If you suspect your home still has lead plumbing, it’s time to act.
Book your lead pipe inspection with Greg’s Plumbing today. We’ll give you peace of mind and clean, safe water for years to come.
Get in Touch
Whether it’s a one-time issue or a full system refresh, we’re here to help.
→ Contact Greg’s Plumbing Now for expert plumbing services in Hamilton and peace of mind that lasts.
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