Can't afford to replace your lead pipe? 9 ways to pay for it

Updated November 2, 2026

Replacing a lead service line can cost several thousand dollars, but most owners have options that cut that to little or nothing. Start at the top of this list.

1. Your utility's free program. Cincinnati, Columbus, Saint Paul, Minneapolis, Denver, Rockford, Trenton and many others replace the private side at no cost. Find yours.
2. Low-income or priority eligibility. Chicago's Equity program and Pittsburgh Water replace the private side for free for income-qualified owners. Ask even if the general program isn't free.
3. Cost-share grants. Iowa City pays 50% up to $5,000; Fort Wayne pays up to 90% based on income; some Illinois suburbs reimburse half up to a cap.
4. Utility loans at 0% or low interest. Philadelphia's HELP loans and Providence Water's loans are 0%; Grand Rapids spreads the cost over ten years on the bill; Elkhart takes $100 down.
5. Property tax assessment. Minneapolis and some other cities let you add the cost to your property taxes over several years at a low rate.
6. Wait for your street's turn. If your utility replaces lines block by block for free, waiting costs nothing but time. Use a certified filter meanwhile.
7. USDA Section 504 home repair. Very-low-income homeowners in rural areas can get repair loans at 1%, and those 62 and older can get grants. Lead line replacement is an eligible repair.
8. Home improvement loans. A HELOC, FHA Title I property improvement loan or personal loan can cover the rest. Compare the rate with any utility loan first.
9. Ask about splitting the work. Some utilities replace the public side free and coordinate with your plumber so you only pay for your side.

What to avoid

• Paying a contractor before checking whether your utility would do it free. Many programs don't reimburse.
• Partial replacement. Replacing only one side can stir up lead and is now banned in many places.
• High-pressure door-to-door offers after the notice letters go out.

Sources: USDA Section 504, Philadelphia Water, Iowa City

Find your city's program

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