Lead Service Lines in Abingdon, MD
What we know about lead pipes in Abingdon
Abingdon is served by 3 water systems that together provide water to about 104,715 people. The largest is Harford County D.P.W., which serves 104,567 residents.
Currently, there are no confirmed lead service lines reported in Abingdon's water systems. However, this doesn't mean lead pipes don't exist—it means the water systems either haven't found them yet, or haven't reported their findings publicly.
Many older homes built before the 1980s may still have lead service lines, even if utilities haven't documented them. Lead pipes were common in construction for decades because lead is easy to work with and highly corrosion-resistant.
Why lead service lines matter
A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the public water main beneath the street. If yours is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels through that pipe, especially if the water is corrosive or sits in the pipe for hours.
Even low levels of lead exposure are a concern for children under 6, pregnant people, and nursing mothers. Lead can affect brain development and learning in young children.
How to find out if you have a lead service line
Contact Harford County D.P.W. directly with your address. They may have records of your service line material, though historical records aren't always complete.
You can also:
- Look at your water bill or service records—sometimes the material is listed.
- Hire a licensed plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home (usually in the basement or crawl space). A magnet won't stick to lead, which is one quick way to identify it.
- Request a water test—Harford County D.P.W. can tell you how to get your tap water tested for lead.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Harford County D.P.W. at their main line to ask about your service line material and request records for your address.
- If you're concerned about lead exposure, talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC for health guidance.
- Consider having your water tested, especially if you have young children or a pregnant household member.
- If you find you have a lead service line, ask your utility about replacement programs or financial assistance.