Lead Service Lines in Delaware, OH
Delaware's water systems serve about 196,326 people across 10 different utilities. The two largest—DEL-CO Water Company and Delaware City Public Water System—account for the vast majority of that population.
What we know about lead service lines here
Currently, there is no reported data on lead service lines in Delaware's water systems. This doesn't mean lead service lines don't exist—it means the utilities haven't yet inventoried them or made the results public.
Federal law requires all water systems to locate and catalog lead service lines by October 2024. That deadline has passed, but not all utilities have published their findings. You can contact your local water utility directly to ask about their lead service line inventory and when they plan to share results.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. When water sits in these old pipes—especially if it's slightly corrosive—lead can leach into the water you drink and use for cooking. For children and pregnant people, even low levels of lead exposure can affect health.
If your home was built before 1950, there's a higher chance your service line is lead. Homes built between 1950 and 1980 might have lead lines too, though it's less common. The only way to know for sure is to have your service line identified by a professional or to get your water tested.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about their lead service line inventory. For DEL-CO Water Company (150,000 customers) or Delaware City PWS (43,895 customers), ask when results will be available and request information about your property.
- Test your water if you're concerned. Many water utilities offer free or low-cost testing. Your utility can tell you how.
- Learn about treatment options. If lead is found, point-of-use filters (pitcher or faucet-mounted) can reduce lead if you're using the water for drinking and cooking. Your utility can advise on what works for your system.
- Talk to a pediatrician if you have young children or are pregnant and worried about lead exposure. The CDC has guidance on protecting kids from lead in water.