Got a lead service line letter from your water utility? Here's what it means
Updated November 2, 2026
If your utility mailed you a letter saying your service line is lead, galvanized or unknown, you're not alone. Federal rules require utilities to notify every home in those categories, and to do it every year until the line is replaced.
Why you got it
Under EPA's lead rules, utilities had to inventory every service line by October 2024, then send a notice within 30 days to each customer whose line is lead, galvanized requiring replacement, or unknown. The notices repeat every year. Millions of homes received them.
What each status means
- Lead: records or an inspection show lead on at least one side of the line. It will have to be replaced by about 2037, and possibly much sooner.
- Galvanized requiring replacement: a galvanized line that was or may have been downstream of lead. Treated like lead.
- Unknown: the utility has no record. Many unknowns turn out to be copper, but some are lead. You can often clear it up by sending a photo of the pipe at your meter.
Five things to do next
- Check the pipe yourself with the scratch and magnet test, and report what you find.
- Find your utility's program on this site. Many replace the private side for free, but you may need to sign a consent form or get on a list.
- Filter your drinking water with a filter certified for lead and use only cold water for drinking, cooking and baby formula.
- Test your water. Ask the utility for a free kit.
- Be wary of door-to-door sales. Some contractors use these letters to sell replacements. Your utility's program may be free; check before you sign.
Do I have to replace it?
Usually not right away. The federal rule puts the obligation on the utility. Some states and cities do require owners to act: Appleton, Wisconsin, requires replacement within a year of notice, and Cicero, Illinois, requires it on certain sales and major renovations. See is replacement mandatory?
Sources: EPA LCRI, City of Appleton
Common questions
Is the lead service line letter a scam?
The letters themselves are real and federally required. Be careful with contractors who call or knock afterward: check whether your utility replaces lines for free before signing anything.
My letter says "unknown." Is my water safe?
Unknown only means the utility has no record of the material. Check the pipe at your meter, send the utility a photo, and use a certified filter until you know.
Find your city's program
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