Renters and lead service lines: what tenants can do
Updated November 2, 2026
Utilities send lead service line notices to the account holder or property owner, so renters often never see them. And only the owner can sign up for replacement. Here's how to find out and protect your household.
Find out if your building has a lead line
- Look up the address on your utility's service line inventory map. Your city's page on this site links to the program.
- Check the pipe where it enters the basement, if you can reach it, with the scratch and magnet test.
- Ask your landlord in writing what the service line is made of and whether the utility has sent a lead, galvanized or unknown notice.
What to ask your landlord
- Is the service line lead or galvanized, and has the utility contacted you about replacement?
- Will you sign up for the utility's replacement program? (Many are free for owners.)
- Has the tap water been tested for lead? Can you provide a certified filter?
Some programs, like New York City's, only accept sign-ups from owners, so your landlord has to act. Point them to the program; free replacement is usually the easiest yes.
Protect your household meanwhile
- Use a filter certified to NSF/ANSI 53 for lead for drinking, cooking and baby formula.
- Use only cold water for drinking and cooking, and run the tap for a few minutes if water sat for hours.
- Ask your utility for a free lead test kit; many give them to anyone at the address.
If your landlord won't act
Some states and cities require landlords to disclose lead service lines or allow access for replacement, and a landlord who hides a known lead hazard can face liability under local housing codes. Contact your local housing or health department or a tenant rights organization for the rules where you live.
Common questions
Can a renter sign up for lead pipe replacement?
Usually not. Programs need the property owner's consent because the work is on private property. Ask your landlord to sign up; many programs are free for owners.
Does my landlord have to replace a lead service line?
Federal rules put the duty to replace on the utility, which needs the owner's consent. Some states and cities add landlord disclosure or access rules. Check with your local housing department.
Find your city's program
Chicago, ILCleveland, OHNew York City, NYDetroit, MIMilwaukee, WIIndianapolis, INMinneapolis, MNCincinnati, OHBuffalo, NYColumbus, OHFort Worth, TXSouth Bend, INProvidence, RINashville, TNHammond, INKansas City, MOElkhart, INGrand Rapids, MIPhiladelphia, PAPittsburgh, PASaint Paul, MNMemphis, TNSyracuse, NYWashington, DC, DC
Free replacement programs · Browse by state · Cities with the most lead pipes