Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page for the Lead Service Line Inspection Project. This resource provides detailed information about the inspection process, guidelines for identifying your service line material, and the measures we are taking to comply with federal regulations. Whether you are conducting a self-inspection or arranging for a professional assessment, this page is designed to address your questions and ensure a smooth process. Should you require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact our team for additional support.
Instructions for Lead Pipe Identification
Yes, water utilities are required to sample for lead in the water annually by the Ohio EPA and sample results have not exceeded the action levels set forth by the EPA.
The US EPA requires community water systems to deliver a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), also known as an annual drinking water quality report, to their customers. These reports provide Americans information about their local drinking water quality. You can lookup your CCR using this link: Ohio EPA CCR or go to Ohio EPA Drinking Water Watch for publicly available drinking water data from the state of Ohio.
- Ohio EPA Lead Website
- Ohio EPA Certified labs that test for lead
- USEPA’s lead website, “Protect You Family from Sources of Lead”
- USEPA’s lead website, “Basic Information About Lead in Drinking Water”
- CDC, “Childhood Lead Poisioning Prevention Program”
- AWWA Information About Lead
- National Lead Information Center: 1-800-424-LEAD
- EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline 1-800-426-479
For homes with LSLs, the service line typically contributes the greatest percentage of lead to the tap. LSLs are the final link in the water infrastructure network that delivers water to your home, can contribute unpredictable and variable sources of exposure.
There are numerous health effects caused by lead exposure, including irreversible interference to brain and nervous system development. There is no safe amount of lead exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “People with prolonged exposure to lead may also be at risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease and reduced fertility.” While lead is harmful to all ages, children under 6 and women who are pregnant are at a higher risk.
Learn more about Lead here: Ohio EPA Learn About Lead
Yes, removing the lead service line (LSL) reduces the highest risk for lead in drinking water. It is possible that other risks will remain in your house/building, including internal plumbing sources of lead. These items include, but are not limited to: leaded solder pipes, galvanized plumbing, leaded brass plumbing fixtures, and older faucets. You may want to hire a licensed plumber to replace these items.
A service line provides water from the water main in the street to the property. The water main is installed down the street and the public (utility-owned) service line connects from the water main to the property line.
