Lead Service Lines in Lees Summit, MO
Lees Summit's water systems serve about 108,280 people across four utilities. If you're concerned about lead in your home's water, here's what you need to know.
Lead service lines in your area
A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the public water main. If your line is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap—especially in older homes.
The four water systems serving Lees Summit haven't reported any confirmed lead service lines in their inventories. However, this doesn't mean your home is automatically safe. Water systems are still in the process of mapping their service lines, and many homes built before 1980 may have lead lines that haven't been identified yet.
What you should do now
Find out who supplies your water. The largest system, Lees Summit PWS, serves about 99,400 residents. Jackson County PWSD 15 serves about 8,772 people, and two smaller systems serve the remaining residents.
Ask your utility about your service line. Contact your water supplier and ask:
- Is my service line lead, copper, or something else?
- Do they have a map of the neighborhood I can check?
- What's their timeline for completing their inventory?
Test your water if you're worried. A simple lead test (under $20) can tell you if lead is in your tap water right now. This is especially important if you have children or a pregnant person in your home. Hard water, low pH, and older plumbing all increase the risk of lead leaching into your water.
Consider a filter if you rent or can't replace your line. NSF-certified filters reduce lead, though they require regular cartridge changes to work.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to learn your service line material
- Request or check online for your utility's lead service line inventory map
- Have your water tested if you live in a home built before 1980
- If lead is found, talk to your pediatrician or doctor about next steps for your family