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Community Lead Testing Program
Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is the Township of Woolwich testing for lead in the drinking water?
In 2007, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment amended the Drinking Water Systems Regulation (Ontario Regulation 170/03) made under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002 and introduced the new Community Lead Testing Program (Schedule 15.1 of the Regulation). Under this program, all municipal and non-municipal drinking water systems are required to collect additional samples from private residences, non-residential buildings as well as the distribution system to check for lead in the drinking water.

What is required for the Community Lead Testing program?
Once a home has been registered for the Community Lead Testing program, a Township water operator will visit the home to take a sample. Please note that first time participants will be required to answer a few general questions regarding your plumbing prior to a test (i.e. location of water softener, etc.) The program requires a commitment of approximately half an hour of your time, and we may ask to collect a sample from your premises in each collection period (twice yearly). The results of the lead analysis will be shared with the homeowner within seven days upon receiving the results from the laboratory.

Under the community lead testing program, samples are collected during the period from December 15 to April 15 (under winter conditions) and June 15 to October 15 (under summer conditions). The Township of Woolwich is required to collect a specific number of samples from private residences and non-residential establishments in addition to increasing the number of samples collected from the distribution system.

 What are the benefits?
-There is no cost to the homeowner
- Participants assist the Township by allowing us to gain knowledge regarding lead in drinking water
- Participating in this program allows the homeowner to be aware of their drinking water quality in respect to lead

What happens if lead is detected?
If levels of lead in your home's drinking water are found to exceed the standard, we will resample upon your request. You will also be provided with further information to reduce health risks associated with lead in drinking water.

Should my home be selected for the testing of lead in the drinking water, will there be a charge?
There is no cost to you for the sample collection visit or laboratory costs.

How do I register for the community lead testing program?
The Township of Woolwich will will be beginning Round 9 of sampling on December 15th, 2011. We will be required to sample in Maryhill, Conestogo and Breslau. Should you wish to register for the Community Lead Testing program, please contact the Engineering & Planning Services department at 519-669-6041 or complete the registration form by clicking here.