Lead service lines in Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque's water system serves about 641,659 people across 78 water systems. The largest is the Albuquerque Water System, which serves roughly 560,000 residents.

Lead enters drinking water primarily through lead service lines—the pipes that connect a home to the main water line under the street. Lead can also leach from brass fittings and solder in older plumbing. The good news: if your water is treated properly, lead levels can be kept low. The better news: you can test your water and take steps to reduce exposure.

What we know about lead in Albuquerque

Currently, data on confirmed lead service lines in Albuquerque is not publicly available in a comprehensive format. The Albuquerque Water System and other utilities serving the area are required by federal law to maintain inventories of lead service lines, but these inventories are still being compiled or have not been published online.

This does not mean there are no lead service lines in Albuquerque—it means the information has not been made transparent yet. Older homes (built before 1970) are more likely to have lead service lines, as lead was commonly used in water pipes until it was banned in 1986.

How to find out if you have a lead service line

1. Contact your water utility directly. Ask whether your address is served by a lead service line. The Albuquerque Water System can be reached through the city's website. 2. Check your property records or old inspection documents. Some homes have plumbing diagrams or prior lead testing results. 3. Request a free or low-cost water test. Even if you have a lead service line, water treatment and proper flushing reduce risk. Testing tells you your actual exposure.

What to do if you're concerned

• Test your water. Contact your utility about free or subsidized lead testing kits. Results take 1–2 weeks.
• Use cold water for drinking and cooking. Hot water leaches more lead from pipes.
• Flush the line. Let cold water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking.
• Consider a point-of-use filter certified to remove lead (look for NSF/ANSI 53 certification).

If you have young children in your home, discuss water safety with your pediatrician. The CDC has guidance on reducing lead exposure.

Next steps for residents

• Contact the Albuquerque Water System (or your local water provider) and ask about lead service lines at your address
• Request a free water test if available
• Have your water tested by a certified lab if your utility doesn't offer testing
• Call your pediatrician if you have health concerns about lead exposure

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