What it is
Nickel is a hard, silvery metal used in chrome and nickel plating, stainless steel and many alloys. It occurs naturally at low levels in some rocks and soils, but in drinking water it is almost always a plumbing metal rather than a source-water one.
Where it comes from
The usual source is the tap itself: chrome-plated taps are plated with nickel underneath, and the first draw of water that has stood in the tap overnight can pick up nickel from it. Nickel-plated fittings, some stainless steel components and, less often, the local geology also contribute. New installations with freshly plated fittings are the most likely to show a raised result, which is why nickel is tested for new-build compliance in Scotland.
Why it matters
The main concern is nickel allergy. A significant minority of people are sensitised to nickel through jewellery or skin contact, and for them drinking water with raised nickel can trigger or worsen dermatitis. The UK guideline of 20 µg/l is set with sensitised people in mind. Nickel in drinking water is not otherwise a concern at the levels normally found.
What can be done about it
If nickel is found, run the tap for a few seconds before drinking after it has stood, which flushes the water that has been in contact with the plating. Where the result is well over the guideline, identify the fitting it is coming from and replace it with an unplated or solid stainless alternative. Treatment is rarely needed, but ion exchange or reverse osmosis at the kitchen tap will remove it.
Information last reviewed 17 October 2026 by Pozzani Pure Water.