Lead Service Lines in Honolulu, HI
About lead in your water
Lead service lines—the pipes that carry water from the street main into your home—can leach lead into your drinking water, especially in older plumbing systems or homes built before the 1980s. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect health over time, which is why it matters to know whether your home has one.
What we know about Honolulu's water system
Honolulu serves a population of 971,330 across 22 different water systems. The largest by far is HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR, which serves 631,389 people, followed by WAIPAHU-EWA-WAIANAE with 217,479 people. The remaining systems are smaller community water districts.
The good news: Currently, no known lead service lines have been reported in Honolulu's public water system data. That said, "not reported" doesn't always mean "zero"—some water systems are still in the process of surveying their infrastructure. Lead pipes in private laterals (the section of pipe on your property) are a separate issue that your utility may not track.
How to find out about your home
Your water utility has the most accurate information about your specific address. Here's what to ask:
- Do I have a lead service line? Ask your water department directly. Some utilities can tell you based on your address and property records.
- When was my home built? Homes constructed before 1988 are more likely to have lead pipes or galvanized pipes (which can corrode and release lead).
- What's in my water? Request a recent water quality report. All public water systems must publish annual reports showing lead levels.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility (listed below) and ask about lead service line inventory for your address.
- Request a copy of the annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report) from your utility—it's free and required by law.
- Have your water tested if you're concerned. Many labs can test for lead; your health department can recommend one.
- If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or OB-GYN about lead exposure risk.
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