Water Supply

Drinking Water Quality

The public or mains water supply in Shetland is looked after by Scottish Water (formerly the North of Scotland Water Authority - NOSWA). If you have any concerns about mains water quality you should first of all contact Scottish Water on 0845 601 8855. However, if you think that a problem has not been rectified, we may be able to assist by sampling the supply and/or carrying out other investigations. If a problem is confirmed, the Environmental Health Service can raise the issue with Scottish Water on your behalf. There is no charge for this service.

Lead in Drinking Water

Public water supplies contain only very low levels of Lead if any. However, Lead pipes and solder in domestic plumbing can give rise to unacceptable levels of Lead in tap water. If you believe you may have Lead pipes or Lead soldered plumbing, Environmental Health can arrange for your water to be tested. There will be a charge for this service. Grant aid may be available if your water is shown to contain increased levels of lead.

Private Water Supplies

Being a rural area, Shetland contains a number of private water supplies. Under current legislation, a programmed system of chemical and bacteriological sampling is carried out.

The Environmental Health Division provides advice on improvement and servicing of private water supplies.

If your private water supply has qualitative or quantitative problems grant aid may be available.

You can also download the Private Water Supplies Manual
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