LeadPipeLookup

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Lead service lines in Buffalo, NY

22 water utilities serve Buffalo, with approximately 795,342 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
220
Galvanized
0
Unknown
39,292
% unknown
99.4%

Lead Service Lines in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo's water system serves 795,342 people across 22 different water utilities. While most homes receive safe drinking water, some properties are still connected to lead service lines—the pipes that bring water from the main water line into your house.

What we know about lead in Buffalo

Utilities in Buffalo have identified 220 known lead service lines across the region. However, the bigger concern is the 39,292 lines of unknown material. These pipes were installed before records were kept reliably, so their actual composition is uncertain. Some may contain lead; others may be safe. Until a line is tested or replaced, there's no way to know for sure.

The five largest utilities serving the Buffalo area are:

  • ECWA DIRECT (313,380 people served): 10 known lead lines
  • BUFFALO WATER AUTHORITY (276,000 people served): 10 known lead lines
  • ECWA AMHERST (92,697 people served): 10 known lead lines
  • ECWA LANCASTER (29,018 people served): 10 known lead lines
  • ECWA ORCHARD PARK (24,582 people served): 10 known lead lines

Why this matters

Lead can dissolve into drinking water, especially from older pipes or when water sits in the line overnight. Even small amounts of lead can affect children's brain development and learning. There's no safe threshold.

If your home was built before 1980—or you're unsure about your service line material—you may have a lead connection. Properties built in the 1970s and earlier are at higher risk.

Finding out about your own home

Your water utility has records (or estimates) of which lines are lead, galvanized steel, copper, or unknown. Start by contacting your local utility directly. They can tell you:

  • Whether your property has a known lead line
  • If your line is categorized as "unknown"
  • Options for testing or replacement

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility using the system names above to ask about your service line material
  • Request a test if your line is unknown—many utilities offer free or reduced-cost testing
  • Consider replacement if lead is confirmed; ask your utility about assistance programs or rebates
  • Reduce exposure now by running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking and using a certified lead filter if recommended by your utility

Utilities serving Buffalo

Common questions

How do I know if I have a lead service line in Buffalo?

Contact your water utility with your address—they maintain records of known lead lines and can tell you your line's material. If your line is marked "unknown," you can request testing through your utility.

Is Buffalo's tap water safe to drink?

Buffalo's water meets federal safety standards, but some older homes connected by lead service lines may have lead in their tap water. The risk depends on your specific line and how long water sits in it.

How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?

Replacement costs vary, but can range from $3,000 to $25,000 depending on depth and location. Contact your water utility about replacement assistance programs, grants, or rebates that may be available.

Can I filter out lead at home?

NSF-certified lead filters on your tap or pitcher can reduce lead in drinking water. However, they require regular replacement and won't remove lead that's already in your pipes—replacement is the permanent solution.