Only around 45 per cent in South East use approved plumbers

According to new research, just 45 per cent of homeowners in the South East say they only use approved plumbers for home plumbing work.

The findings come from WaterSafe Register, the UK’s national register of approved plumbers.

Jonathan Samuel, managing director of WaterSafe Register, said: “Choosing an approved plumber is one of the most effective ways homeowners can protect their drinking water.

“Approved plumbers hold recognised qualifications and understand the water regulations that keep tap water safe.

“Safe, high-quality plumbing prevents contamination, avoids costly leaks and maintains drinking water quality.

“I’d encourage all homeowners to visit watersafe.org.uk to find their nearest registered plumber or specialist water contractor.”

In England, drinking water quality remains high, reaching 99.97 per cent compliance in 2024.

However, the latest report from the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) revealed that more than 31 per cent of water quality events in 2024 occurred on consumer premises, linked to issues including pipework fittings, cross-connections, lead pipes, nickel leaching from taps and connectors, and the improper use or absence of backflow protection.

Using an approved plumber may also save homeowners the step of notifying their water company before certain types of plumbing work.

The WaterSafe Register is the UK’s largest directory of vetted, qualified plumbers and drinking water contractors, all of whom are proven to comply with the Water Regulations.

It is backed by drinking water regulators and supported by water companies across the UK.

The research was based on a survey of 2,000 homeowners conducted by OnePoll in 2025.