LeadPipeLookup

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Lead service lines in Knoxville, TN

54 water utilities serve Knoxville, with approximately 607,093 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
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Galvanized
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Lead Service Lines in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville's water systems serve about 607,000 people across 54 different utilities. The good news: current records show no confirmed lead service lines in the city's inventory data. But "not yet reported" is different from "doesn't exist," so understanding what that means for your home matters.

What we know about Knoxville's water systems

The five largest utilities serving Knoxville are:

  • Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) — serves 254,671 people
  • First U.D. of Knox County — serves 115,531 people
  • Hallsdale-Powell U.D. — serves 84,315 people
  • West Knox Utility District — serves 77,825 people
  • Knox-Chapman Utility District — serves 41,311 people

None of these systems have reported finding lead service lines so far. However, many older homes across the country—especially those built before 1986—do have lead connections underground. Knoxville has plenty of pre-1986 homes, so it's worth checking your own property.

Lead service lines: why they matter

A lead service line is the pipe connecting your home to the public water main. Even if your utility hasn't identified lead lines yet, yours could still be one. Lead can leach into water, especially if water is corrosive (acidic). For young children and pregnant people, even small amounts of lead exposure matter.

How to find out about your home

Contact your water utility directly—they're listed above. Ask:

1. When was your service line installed? 2. What material is it made of (copper, steel, lead, or unknown)? 3. Does your utility have a lead service line inventory map you can access?

If your utility says "unknown," you have options: hire a plumber to inspect it, or request a free or low-cost test from your utility.

If you find lead

Don't panic—lead in the pipe doesn't automatically mean lead in your water. But testing is wise. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, use only cold water for cooking and drinking, and consider a pitcher or faucet filter certified for lead removal while you sort out next steps.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility using the name and PWS ID above to ask about your service line material
  • Request a water test if your utility can't confirm your line is lead-free
  • Check the EPA's guidance on lead service lines at epa.gov
  • Talk to your pediatrician or doctor if you're concerned about exposure, especially for children under 6

```json [ { "q": "Does Knoxville have lead in the water?", "a": "Knoxville's water utilities have not reported confirmed lead service lines in their current inventories. However, many older homes may still have lead connections underground that haven't been identified yet. Testing your home's water is the best way to know if lead is reaching your tap." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "Contact your water utility and ask what material your service line is made of. If they say 'unknown,' you can hire a plumber to inspect it or request a water test from your utility. Many utilities offer free or discounted testing." }, { "q": "Is lead in my water dangerous?", "a": "Lead exposure is a health concern, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. If you're worried about health effects, talk to your doctor or pediatrician. For water safety questions, contact the EPA or your local health department." }, { "q": "What should I do if I think I have a lead service line?", "a": "First, test your water to see if lead is actually present. Run cold water for

Utilities serving Knoxville