I get black slime/mould build up in
Bathroom basin
Bath plug/drain
Washing machine

Bugged me for ages does anybody understand why this happens and more importantly how to stop it happening!
Also is it anything to do with a Lead water pipe

Does not matter how often we clean it away or rinse it just keeps coming back

I have always lived in the same town in 3 different houses and im sure we never suffered it in our First house, but i specifically had the lead pipe removed from inside and the supply too
The other 2 both suffered it and both have lead supply pipes?

Any pointers? come on somebody must know this one, im counting on forum power!

Don't think it's anything to do with lead (I think lead is poisonous to most things). We get a bit of it here in the Highlands - never really worried about it.

Its most likely a biofilm of bacteria/molds growing in the damp areas. Whilst it could be lead related is probably related to the bacteria/molds feeding on manganese or other dissolved minerals. Generally they are pretty harmless but unsightly. It is possible the biofilm can get into the materials meaning that it will come back but cleaning with mild bleach solutions will reduce it.

If you can find out more by contacting your local supplier who should be able to provide you with a water quality report or if you have concerns can come and test your supply.

Lead supplies are not normally an issue except when they are disturbed. In many areas water is treated to prevent/reduce Plumbosolvency. Again you can have your supply checked if need be.

As for it not being an issue in previous properties they may have been supplied for another source with different water quality properties.

Thanks for the replies,
Is this a ventilation issue then or just the modern chemicals in detergents? like i said never had this issue at our first house in 1996 and all houses are within a mile of each other so i am certain we get the water from the same source!

Might have to look into this a bit more
Cheers

Yes better ventilation will help but if the biofilm has got into the soft/porous materials (silicone sealant/grout) it can return quickly.

Cleaning with bleach and possibly a steam cleaner may help reduce the speed of return by killing the spores but keeping the areas as dry/well ventilated as possible will help as well.