Lead service lines in Lisbon, ME
Lisbon has three water systems serving 24,013 people. Lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the water main—can leach lead into drinking water, especially in older homes and when water is corrosive. Maine requires water utilities to test for lead and report their findings publicly.
What we know about lead in Lisbon's water systems
The three utilities serving Lisbon are:
- Auburn Water District (serves 17,245 people)
- Lisbon Water Department (serves 6,643 people)
- Lisbon Left Hand Club (serves 125 people)
None of these utilities have reported known lead service lines to the state. However, absence of reported lead lines does not mean there are zero lead connections—it may mean inventories are incomplete or testing is ongoing. Maine's Lead Service Line Inventory Rule requires utilities to identify and publicly report their lead service lines by specific deadlines.
How to find out if your home has a lead service line
The most direct way is to contact your water utility. Ask them:
1. Do you have a lead service line inventory? 2. Is my address included in it? 3. Do you have records of my service line material?
You can also look at your property deed or contact your town's public works department; some municipalities keep records of water connections. If your home was built before 1980, lead service lines are more likely (though not certain).
If you find lead in your service line
Lead doesn't always leach into water—it depends on water chemistry, temperature, and pipe condition. Even so:
- Have your water tested by a certified lab. Contact your utility for a recommendation or visit the Maine Department of Environmental Protection for lab listings.
- Use a water filter certified to remove lead (NSF/ANSI 53 or 58).
- Flush your tap before drinking or cooking: let cold water run for 30 seconds to several minutes if the tap has not been used for 6+ hours.
- Do not boil water to remove lead—boiling concentrates it.
If you have young children, consult your pediatrician about testing. For broader health questions, contact the CDC's lead information line.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility directly to ask about lead service line inventories and your home's service line material.
- Request a water test if you're concerned, especially if you have young children or a pregnant household member.
- Use point-of-use filters (like refrigerator or faucet filters) rated for lead removal while you investigate.
- Check your town's records at the public works or assessor's office for historical information about your water connection.