PROPERTY owners are being urged to "take the scratch test" for lead water pipes.

Water Safe, the online directory of qualified plumbers, said a survey revealed two-thirds of homeowners do not know if their water is supplied through the potentially harmful pipes.

The trade body said water used for drinking and cooking supplied through lead pipes can create a build-up of lead in the body, which can be bad for health, especially for babies and children.

Water Safe added half of householders do not know it is their responsibility to replace lead pipes they find in their home with copper or plastic ones.

Julie Spinks, director of the industry body, said: "We’re asking property owners to do one thing during Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (October 21 to 27) – check your homes and business premises for lead water pipes, especially if you have an older property.

“It’s quite simple – find the water pipe where it enters your home, which is usually in a kitchen cupboard or under the stairs.

“Lead pipes are normally dull grey and soft and if you scrape the surface gently with a coin you’ll see shiny silver-coloured metal underneath. It’s quite distinct from copper or plastic. If the pipes are painted just scrape the paint off too.”

Lead pipes have been banned in the UK for more than 25 years, so it is houses built before 1970 which are most likely to have them.

Homeowners who find they have lead pipes should contact their water supplier who can test the drinking water and offer advice on replacing them.

WaterSafe recommends employing an approved plumber from its UK register to replace pipes, as they are fully qualified in water supply regulations and are promoted by water companies to keep tap water safe. See watersafe.org.uk