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Lead service lines in Laredo, TX

9 water utilities serve Laredo, with approximately 271,980 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
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Galvanized
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% unknown

Lead Service Lines in Laredo, TX

What you need to know

Laredo's nine water systems serve approximately 271,980 people. The City of Laredo operates the largest system, providing water to 260,046 residents, followed by Webb County Water Utilities and several smaller systems.

Currently, no lead service lines have been identified in any of Laredo's water systems. However, this doesn't mean none exist—it means utilities either haven't completed a full inventory yet, or their records are incomplete. Many older water systems across the country are still mapping their underground pipes.

Why lead service lines matter

Lead service lines are pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street into your home. When water sits in these pipes overnight or for extended periods, lead can leach into your drinking water. This is a particular concern for babies, young children, and pregnant people, whose bodies absorb lead more readily.

Lead service lines are most common in homes built before 1986, though they can exist in any era. A lead pipe looks dull gray and is soft enough that a penny can scratch it. However, the only way to know for certain is a professional water test or pipe inspection.

What Laredo utilities are required to do

Texas water utilities are required to test for lead and copper in drinking water, and to maintain records of service line materials. If your utility hasn't published an inventory of known lead service lines, they may still be in the process of identifying them—a process that can take years.

Steps for residents

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility directly and ask if your home has a lead service line. Provide your address. The City of Laredo (260,046 customers) and Webb County Water Utilities (8,358 customers) are your most likely providers.
  • Request a water test through your utility or a certified lab if you're concerned about lead levels, especially if you have young children or are pregnant.
  • Check your pipes if you have basement access or can see the connection point where water enters your home. Lead pipes are gray, soft, and dull-looking.
  • Use cold water for drinking and cooking while you investigate—hot water can contain higher lead levels since it sits in pipes longer.

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Utilities serving Laredo

Common questions

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

Contact your water utility (City of Laredo or Webb County Water Utilities) with your address and ask directly. You can also inspect the pipe where water enters your home—lead pipes are dull gray and soft enough that a penny will scratch them. A water test will show if lead is present in your drinking water regardless of pipe material.

Is Laredo's tap water safe to drink?

Laredo utilities test for lead and copper regularly and are required to report results. No lead service lines have been identified in current records, but the only way to know about your specific home is to test your water or contact your utility. If you're concerned about lead, request a free or low-cost test from your local health department.

What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my home's water?

Contact your water utility to ask about your service line material and request a lead test for your home. In the meantime, use cold water for drinking and cooking—hot water can leach more lead. If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or doctor about testing.

How old does my house need to be to have a lead service line?

Lead service lines are most common in homes built before 1986, but they can exist in homes built anytime. The only way to know is to check your utility records, inspect the pipe visually, or have your water tested.