New Research Reveals Millions of UK Homes at Risk of Water Contamination Due to Lack of Knowledge on Water Regulations
OXFORD, July 23, 2025 – A recent study conducted by global water safety authority NSF has revealed a concerning ‘compliance paradox’ in Britain’s plumbing regulations that puts millions of UK homes at risk of water contamination or leaks. The study found that while half of homeowners have installed water fittings in the last five years, more than half (52%) are unaware of their legal responsibility to ensure that these products comply with regulatory standards, even when purchased from legitimate retailers.
According to Regulation 4 of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, all water fittings connected to drinking water must comply with specific standards to ensure the safety of the public water supply. However, the research shows that a significant knowledge gap exists among homeowners, allowing manufacturers to produce non-compliant products and shops to sell them, while homeowners and installers bear full legal responsibility.
Samantha Duffy, Senior Manager, Global Water Programs EU and UK at NSF, emphasized the concerning consequences of this situation, stating, “Imagine buying a tap from a reputable DIY store, installing it yourself and then learning you’ve unknowingly broken the law and potentially put your family’s health at risk. This is the reality for millions of homeowners across Britain today.”
The survey, which involved 2,000 UK adults, also revealed that one in five homeowners believe their property likely contains fittings that violate water regulations, with younger generations being more concerned. Nearly half of those under 35 suspect they have non-compliant water fittings in their homes.
The lack of awareness regarding water regulations has serious implications, as non-compliant fittings can lead to harmful substances, like heavy metals or bacteria, leaching into drinking water. This can result in a range of health issues, from gastrointestinal problems to long-term health concerns. Additionally, non-compliant products can cause property damage from leaks, potentially leading to legal and financial consequences, as well as invalidating home insurance.
David Platt, Director of Water, EMEA at NSF, urged homeowners to take action to protect their families and property, stating, “This isn’t just about following rules, it’s about protecting your family’s health. Where non-compliant fittings are installed, they can introduce contaminants directly into your drinking water. The regulations exist specifically to prevent this, but they only work if people know about them.”
To ensure compliance with water regulations, NSF recommends three simple steps for all UK homeowners:
1. Check existing fittings: Homeowners should check recently installed water fittings to ensure they have the proper UK compliance certification.
2. Look for REG4 certification marks: When purchasing new fittings, consumers should look for products with REG4 certification, such as NSF REG4, which guarantees compliance with UK regulations. They should be cautious of very cheap products that do not mention UK compliance or certification.
3. Consult a qualified plumber: For more complex installations, homeowners should work with professionals who have a thorough understanding of water regulations.
Duffy added, “The good news is that compliance is straightforward once you know what to look for. Regulation 4 certification marks, such as NSF REG4, provide instant assurance that a product meets all UK water regulations, making it easy for homeowners to make safe choices.”
To help homeowners understand UK water regulations, NSF has created a free, easy-to-understand guide available at this link.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.