Delaware Lead Service Line Replacement Programs
Delaware water systems reported 2,691 lead and 3,601 galvanized service lines that must be replaced (EPA, Q3 2026). Below: the state rule on who pays, and every Delaware utility with at least 1,000 such lines or a confirmed program.
Federal Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (40 CFR 141 Subpart I)
This state has no law we found that decides who pays for the private side of a lead service line, so each utility sets its own policy. Under the federal rule, utilities must replace every lead line and galvanized line that needs it within ten years of November 1, 2027, but the rule does not make utilities pay for the owner's side. Federal infrastructure money passed through the state revolving fund can pay for it, so many utilities offer free or discounted replacement, especially for low-income owners.
Mandatory? No state owner mandate found; the federal rule requires most utilities to replace all lead and galvanized-requiring-replacement lines by 2037.
Funding: State Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (federal lead service line money).
Sources: epa.gov
| Utility | Lead | Galv. | Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilmington Wilmington Water Department | 1,708 | 669 | Free when scheduled |
| Dover Dover Water Department | 0 | 1,273 | Not confirmed |
Compare: lead lines in every state · cities with the most lead pipes · free programs in Delaware
Common questions
Who pays to replace lead service lines in Delaware?
This state has no law we found that decides who pays for the private side of a lead service line, so each utility sets its own policy. Under the federal rule, utilities must replace every lead line and galvanized line that needs it within ten years of November 1, 2027, but the rule does not make utilities pay for the owner's side. Federal infrastructure money passed through the state revolving fund can pay for it, so many utilities offer free or discounted replacement, especially for low-income owners.
Is lead service line replacement mandatory in Delaware?
No state owner mandate found; the federal rule requires most utilities to replace all lead and galvanized-requiring-replacement lines by 2037.
How many lead service lines are in Delaware?
Water systems in Delaware reported 2,691 lead service lines, 3,601 galvanized lines that need replacement and 109,782 lines of unknown material to EPA (Q3 2026), across 35 reporting systems.
Where can I get help paying in Delaware?
Start with your water utility's program; the table on this page shows what we've confirmed. State money flows through: State Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (federal lead service line money). If your utility has no program, see our guide to paying for replacement.