Research indicates that approximately 40 per cent of homeowners in the South East of England may be hiring plumbers who are not officially approved.

The study found that only 45 per cent of homeowners in the South East exclusively use approved plumbers for their plumbing needs.

The data was gathered by WaterSafe Register, which operates as the UK’s official register for approved plumbing professionals.

According to Jonathan Samuel, who manages WaterSafe Register, enlisting an approved plumber represents one of the most reliable steps homeowners can take to safeguard their drinking water.

These qualified tradespeople possess certified credentials and are knowledgeable about the water regulations designed to ensure tap water remains safe for consumption.

Proper plumbing work helps prevent contamination, reduces the risk of expensive water leaks, and preserves the quality of drinking water.

Homeowners are advised to use the watersafe.org.uk website to locate their nearest registered plumber or qualified water contractor.

England’s drinking water maintains excellent standards, achieving 99.97 per cent compliance in 2024.

However, the most recent findings from the Drinking Water Inspectorate showed that over 31 per cent of water quality incidents in 2024 took place inside homes, caused by problems such as pipe fittings, cross-connections, lead piping, nickel release from taps and connectors, and incorrect or missing backflow prevention devices.

Employing an approved plumber can also mean homeowners avoid having to inform their water supplier before undertaking certain plumbing projects.

The WaterSafe Register serves as the UK’s most extensive database of checked, qualified plumbers and drinking water specialists, all of whom have demonstrated compliance with Water Regulations.

The register receives support from drinking water regulatory bodies and water companies throughout the UK.

The study involved 2,000 homeowners and was carried out by OnePoll in 2025.