Lead Service Lines in Keene, NH
What you need to know
Keene's water systems serve about 31,602 people across 16 different utilities. The Keene Water Department is the largest, serving roughly 30,000 residents.
Lead can enter drinking water through old service lines—the pipes that connect water mains under the street to homes. These lead service lines were commonly installed before the 1980s. The good news: lead is preventable with the right information and action.
Lead service line status in Keene
The water systems serving Keene have not yet reported confirmed lead service lines to state records. However, this does not mean lead lines aren't present—it may mean inventories are still being completed or data hasn't been made public yet. Many older neighborhoods in New England have lead service lines even when utilities haven't formally documented them.
Federal law requires all water systems to develop an inventory of lead service lines by October 2024 and share results with customers. Your utility should have this information available or be in the process of gathering it.
What to do about lead in your home
If your home was built before 1980 and you're in Keene, there's a reasonable chance your service line contains lead. The only way to know for certain is to have it tested or to check with your water utility.
If you're concerned about lead:
- Contact the Keene Water Department and ask about your property's service line material. Many utilities can tell you based on service records.
- Request a water test. You can get an inexpensive lead test kit or hire a certified lab.
- Consider installing a point-of-use filter certified to remove lead if testing shows it's present.
For health concerns—especially if you have young children or are pregnant—consult your pediatrician or the CDC website on lead and drinking water.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility and ask: "What's the material of the service line to my property?" (Start with Keene Water Department if you're in the city.)
- Request or perform a water test to check for lead, or ask if your utility offers free testing.
- Check your home's age — if it was built before 1980, lead service lines are more likely.
- Visit the EPA's lead page for filters, testing options, and health information.