Lead water test kits: free and lab options

A pipe inspection tells you what your line is made of. A water test tells you whether lead is reaching your tap. Here's how to get one.

1. Ask your utility (often free)

Many utilities, including Rockford, Rochester and Minneapolis, give free lead test kits to customers on request. It's the best first step because the utility's lab is certified.

2. State-certified lab kits

If your utility doesn't offer one, order a kit from a state-certified drinking water lab. Search your state health department's list of certified labs, or use a national mail-in service that uses certified labs, such as Tap Score (about $40 to $150 for lead tests).

Skip the instant strips for decisions

Home test strips can flag very high lead but often miss levels that matter. Use a lab test before deciding anything.

How to sample

• Take a first-draw sample after water sat at least 6 hours, usually first thing in the morning, from the kitchen cold tap.
• Some kits ask for a second, later sample to catch lead from the service line itself.
• Don't remove the aerator or run the water first unless the kit says to.

Any detectable lead is worth acting on: EPA's health goal for lead is zero, and the action level drops to 10 ppb in 2027. Use a certified filter and talk to your doctor about blood lead testing for young children.