Water Line Repair and Replacement
Lead service line replacement
A lead service line is the buried pipe between the water main and your home, common in houses built before the 1950s and legal in some places until lead pipe was banned nationally in 1986. Replacing it means installing a new copper or plastic line from the main or curb to the meter. Call your water utility first: many run replacement programs and keep records of pipe materials.
- Independent licensed local plumbers
- The plumber gives you a price before work starts
- Free referral, no obligation
Ownership is usually split. The utility typically owns the section from the main to the curb stop or property line and the homeowner owns the rest, though some cities assign the whole line to the owner. Federal rules now require water systems to keep an inventory of service line materials, so your utility may already know what you have.
Replacing only one side is discouraged. Cutting a lead pipe and joining new pipe to the remaining lead can disturb it and raise lead levels at the tap for a period afterward. Health agencies recommend replacing the full line in one job, and flushing and filtering for a time after any work.
When you need lead service line replacement
- The pipe entering near the meter is dull gray, scratches to shiny silver and does not attract a magnet
- Your utility's records or map list your service line as lead or unknown
- A water test shows lead and the home was built before the mid-1900s
- The old line is leaking and has to be dug up anyway
- Your utility has notified you that your street is scheduled for replacement
How it is done and the choices involved
- 1
Confirm the material
The plumber or utility checks the pipe at the meter and, if needed, at the curb. Galvanized pipe downstream of lead may also be flagged for replacement because it can hold lead particles.
- 2
Coordinate with the utility
The utility locates and shuts the service, and in many programs replaces its portion at the same time. Ask what the program covers and whether you must use an approved contractor.
- 3
Trenchless or open trench
New line is often pulled through the path of the old one or bored underground between two pits, which spares lawns and driveways. Open trenching is used where that is not possible.
- 4
Flush and filter afterward
After replacement the lines are flushed, and utilities commonly advise using a filter certified for lead for several months while the plumbing settles.
What affects the cost of lead service line replacement
Prices vary by market and job. The pro gives you a price before starting; these factors drive it.
- Length and depth of the line, deeper in cold climates
- What is on the surface: lawn, driveway, sidewalk or street
- Trenchless pulling or boring versus open trench
- Whether the utility pays for its portion, or for all of it
- Permit, inspection and street restoration requirements
- Moving the meter or bringing the entry point up to current code
Lead Service Line Replacement FAQ
How do I know if my water service line is lead?
Find where the water pipe enters the building, usually near the meter. Lead is dull gray and soft: scratching it with a coin leaves a shiny silver mark, and a magnet will not stick. Copper is the color of a penny, and galvanized steel is gray, hard and magnetic.
Who pays to replace a lead service line?
It depends on the utility. Some replace the entire line at no direct charge, some cover only the public side, and some offer loans or grants for the private side. Check your water utility's program before hiring anyone.
Is it safe to drink the water until the line is replaced?
Follow your utility's and health department's guidance. Common advice is to use a filter certified to remove lead for drinking and cooking, run the tap before use when water has sat for hours, and use only cold water for consumption.
Should I replace only my side of a lead service line?
Full replacement is recommended. A partial replacement leaves lead in the ground and can temporarily increase lead release where the pipe was cut. If the utility is not ready to do its side, ask how the two jobs can be coordinated.
Sources
- Lead service lines, US Environmental Protection Agency
Part of water line repair and replacement
Lead Service Line Replacement is one job within water line repair and replacement. The main page covers the warning signs, the full process and what you can safely do yourself.
Water Line Repair and Replacement by city
Ownership rules, permits and pipe materials differ from city to city. Local guides:
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Need help with lead service line replacement?
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