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PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
(15 July 2026)

Question Asked

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, who is the responsible body for ensuring lead testing happens in school buildings.

Asked by:
Steve Darling (Liberal Democrat)

Answer

Responsibility for the safety and maintenance of school buildings, including ensuring the quality of drinking water, rests with the responsible body for the school. For maintained schools this is usually the local authority or governing body, and for academies it is the academy trust.

Responsible bodies are expected to comply with relevant legal requirements and take appropriate action, including testing for lead in drinking water where there is a potential risk. The School Premises (England) Regulations 2012 require schools to have suitable drinking water facilities.


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