UPDATED LEAD-FREE & DZR COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS – Effective May 2026

Updated Lead-Free & DZR Compliance Requirements – Effective May 2026

From May 2026, all newly installed copper-alloy (brass) plumbing products must contain less than 0.25% lead, in line with the updated regulatory standards. In addition, all tapware installed must be both lead-free and dezincification resistant (DZR) to ensure long-term safety and performance.

To prepare for this transition, Mico has already begun updating its product range. Compliant items are now clearly marked with “LF” or “Lead-Free” labels on both the product and its packaging. You’ll start seeing these new options appearing across our shelves and bins.

While the shift to lead-free manufacturing involves higher production costs, PERL Plumbing is committed to keeping pricing consistent with current equivalents wherever possible. In most cases, there will be no change in price.

Throughout this transition, PERL Plumbing remains dedicated to making the process seamless, with our team available to provide ongoing support, guidance, and clarity at every stage.

Q: Do these new rules affect every plumbing product?
A: No. Products like toilets, urinals, baths, laundry appliances, and irrigation/fire systems aren’t included. It’s just the Brass products that come into contact with our drinking water.

Q: What if my project was consented before 1 May 2026?
A: You’ll be able to use non-lead-free products that were considered to be compliant at the time for projects where the consent was lodged or granted before May 1st.

Q: Will lead-free products cost more?
A: We’re committed to keeping product costs down, despite higher manufacturing costs. Where possible, Mico is maintaining prices comparable to current products.

If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to chat with your local PERL Plumber Find a local plumber – 24 hours a day | PERL Plumbing

Key Regulatory Details

• Effective Date: 1st May 2026
• Requirement: All new copper-alloy (brass) plumbing products installed that come into contact with drinking water must contain less than 0.25% lead.
• Applies to:
  • Tapware, which must also be dezincification resistant (marked as DR or DZR)
  • Copper alloy fittings (Brass), valves and fittings used for drinking water
  • Any plumbing fitting that comes into contact with drinking water
• Reason for Change: To improve health and safety by reducing lead exposure in potable water systems. In the UK, lead was banned in plumbing fittings in 1999 and in the US, it was banned in 2014.