[earthmummy]

One month ago I moved. I thought I hadnt washed the water jug properly when I noticed black stuff lining the container, so I just washed it.

Sunday DD thought DS had put pepper in her glass of water so I filled a glass from the tap and let it settle, it had black particles suspended in it too.

Ive rung the RE who dont seem concerned even after I told them it could be a health issue. We're not drinking the water but have to wash-up and bathe in it. WDYT it is? the particles are between 1-5mm. Should I get it tested? Im stressing that we've been poisoned.

[*Athena*]

I would call the council and a plumber or 3 to get an idea as to if you need to get some quotes re the issue etc .....if still not happy I would contact the tenants union in your state and ask for further advice.

HTHs let us know how you get on?!?!

[juliavc]

Possibly some scale/corrosion coming off of the pipework.

Is it occurring from all taps, or just 1?

[Phascogale]

Do your neighbours have the same problem? If they do then ring your water company. There may be an issue with the supply and they will test. You water supplier will also be obligated to fix the issue if the problem is with them.

But if it's just you it's probably an issue with the pipes and something probably needs to be done. You can have the water tested (your local water supplier will either do it for you or tell you who will) but it will cost you. However you should be able to get reimbursed by your landlord. And he will need to fix the problem. The RE will have no idea about water quality issues and will want to palm it off even if it's a major problem. You could try a plumber like a PP suggested.

If it's something that's not hazardous then you could always buy a water filter ie Brita and filter your drinking and cooking water till the issue is fixed. Just be aware that you will probably clog your filters quite quickly but this may be reimbursable by your landlord while they fix the pipes.

If the landlord does nothing and it's something that needs to be fixed then you may need to go to the tenants tribunal or another legal avenue.

[earthmummy]

I rang Sydney Water and a water scientist rang me back and ran me through testing the water. By testing water from the front yard tap he told me it was an internal problem.

The bathroom tap/handle under the sink had been turned down til it was almost off which had caused the problem. The black particles were rubber in the water and we were drinking it Apparently the rubber lines those flexible braided metal pipes under the sink. As soon as I opened the tap up SHAZAAM! problem fixed.