Upgrading your hydration points isn’t just about meeting the 2026 lead free requirement. It’s an opportunity to enhance water quality, minimise plastic waste, and make hydration simple and accessible to everyone.

1. Audit Every Hydration Point

Start by walking your site and listing all taps, refill stations, bubblers, and fountains used for drinking water. 

Look for: 

1. Corrosion, leaks, or broken parts.

2. Missing or outdated certification.

3. High-use areas and units over 10 years old.

A simple checklist or photo log helps you document what needs attention.

2. Plan and Budget Ahead

Create a practical upgrade plan: 

1. Prioritise canteens, sports areas, and outdoor spaces.

2. Break the work into stages leading up to May 2026.

3. Budget for certified products, installation, and ongoing servicing.

Early planning helps avoid last-minute costs or supply issues.

3. Choose Certified Lead Free Products

Every new unit should be: 

1. No more than 0.25% lead in any water-contact part.

2. WaterMark certified, with a visible logo and certification number.

3. Suitable for high-traffic areas and easy to maintain.

Look for features like refill nozzles, hands-free use, and vandal resistance. Civiq’s Aquafil Hydrobank and Pulse Senior 1400BFF meet these standards.

4. Use Licensed Installers

Always work with a licensed plumber who is familiar with the latest drinking water regulations. Ask for documentation that includes product certification details and installation dates.

5. Maintain for Long-Term Safety

Protect your investment by: 

1. Cleaning nozzles and replacing filters as scheduled.

2. Checking for leaks, low flow, or visible wear.

3. Logging inspections and updates in your maintenance records 

Routine upkeep keeps your water clean and your units running longer.

6. Make Hydration Easy and Appealing

Modern hydration stations do more than meet standards. They help promote better habits. 

1. Clear, well-placed stations reduce queues and support all-day access.

2. Low-maintenance designs save time for facility staff.

3. Visible certification helps users trust the water.

When water is accessible and familiar, people are more likely to use it.

7. What to Do About Existing Plumbing

You don’t need to replace all plumbing before 2026. The rule only applies to new installations or upgrades made after 1 May 2026. 

Take these steps now: 

1. Audit your current taps and drinking units.

2. Flag any outdated, uncertified equipment.

3. Plan to use lead free, WaterMark certified products for any future work.

4. Record product details and installation dates for compliance.

See Your Guide to the 2026 Lead Free Plumbing Requirement for more.

8. How to Check for WaterMark Certification

Only WaterMark certified products can be used for drinking water. Before you buy: 

1. Ask for the certification number.

2. Search for it in the WaterMark Product Database.

3. Confirm its listed and compliant.

4. Record the number for audit or inspection.

Want to know more? Read WaterMark Certification: What It Means for Safe Drinking Water.

9. What If You Don’t Comply?

After 1 May 2026, using non-compliant products is a breach of the National Construction Code. The risks include: 

1. Failed inspections.

2. Project delays or rejected occupancy certificates.

3. Health liabilities if water quality is compromised.

4. Voided insurance or product warranties.

Avoid these by using certified, lead free products for every installation or upgrade. If you’re unsure, contact the Civiq team for advice.

Why the Upgrade Is Worth It

1. Helps protect community health.

2. Delivers cleaner, better tasting water.

3. Meets national standards before the deadline.

4. Encourages bottle refills and cuts down plastic waste.

Need help planning your upgrade or finding certified solutions?

Explore our lead-free product range or speak with our team for expert advice on staying compliant and delivering safer drinking water.