Drinking water

The public or mains water supply in the South Ayrshire area is looked after by Scottish Water (formerly the West of Scotland Water Authority - WOSWA). If you have any concerns about water quality you should first of all contact Scottish Water on 0800 0778 778. However, if you think that a problem has not been rectified, South Ayrshire Council may be able to assist by sampling the supply and/or carrying out other investigations. If a problem is confirmed, the Environmental Health Division can raise the issue with Scottish Water on your behalf. There is no charge for this service.

Lead in Drinking Water

In Scotland, lead does not occur naturally in significant concentrations in our water supplies. The problem arises when drinking water comes into contact with lead supply pipes, lead tanks, lead solder joints on copper pipes, or inferior quality brass fittings and taps, particularly for longer periods (e.g. overnight/ weekends / holidays periods). This can result in high lead levels in the drinking water supply.

If you suspect you may have lead pipes, the Councils encourages you to undertake further works with a view to establishing whether lead is present and to take steps to replace them; and as a short-term, implement some precautionary measures to protect your health.

Information on the health effects of exposure to lead can be found on the NHS Inform website