Landlords must make sure that their rental properties meet minimum conditions under the Minimum Housing and Health Standards. For example, every building must have water that is safe for human consumption (potable water supply).
In addition, Health Authorities have recognized concerns with lead in drinking water. For instance, Health Canada has guidelines for drinking water quality, which include a maximum acceptable lead concentration in drinking water.
Tenants who are concerned about potential lead in drinking water can contact their landlords and write a letter outlining their concerns. If the landlord does not take steps to deal with the tenant’s concerns, tenants can then try contacting their local Environmental Public Health Office for more information. Landlords can call their water utility provider or municipality to find out about water testing.
To learn more:
- Government of Canada: Guidelines for Drinking Water
- Alberta WaterPortal Society: Do you feel mis-LEAD by your water?
- Government of Alberta, Alberta Health Services: Environmental Public Health – Drinking Water
- Government of Alberta: Common Questions about Lead and Drinking Water
November 2019
