LeadPipeLookup

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Lead service lines in Memphis, TN

7 water utilities serve Memphis, with approximately 666,619 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
0
Galvanized
0
Unknown
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% unknown
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Lead Service Lines in Memphis, TN

Memphis serves about 666,619 people across 7 water systems. The largest by far is Memphis Light, Gas, & Water, which supplies roughly 659,500 residents.

What we know about lead in Memphis

Currently, there are no confirmed lead service lines documented in Memphis's water system inventories. However, this doesn't mean lead pipes don't exist in the city—it means data collection is still underway or incomplete. The EPA requires all water utilities to identify and inventory lead service lines by 2027, so more information may emerge as utilities complete their surveys.

Galvanized steel pipes, which can corrode and release lead into water, also show no documented cases in Memphis inventories at this time.

Why this matters

Lead in drinking water is a health concern, especially for children and pregnant people. Even small amounts can affect development. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher likelihood your service line (the pipe connecting your home to the street main) contains lead. Older homes are particularly at risk if they haven't had plumbing replacements.

The best way to know if your home has a lead service line is to contact your water utility directly or have a plumber inspect your pipes.

How to check your home

Your water utility has records that show what material your service line is made of. Memphis Light, Gas, & Water maintains these records and can tell you whether your connection is lead, copper, galvanized steel, or another material.

If you're concerned about lead in your tap water, inexpensive testing kits are available, and your utility may offer free or reduced-cost testing. Running cold water for 30 seconds before use and using cold water for drinking and cooking are simple interim steps that can reduce exposure.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact Memphis Light, Gas, & Water to ask if your service line contains lead. Have your address ready.
  • Request water testing if you're concerned about lead levels in your tap water.
  • Inspect older fixtures like faucets and valves—these can also be sources of lead contamination.
  • Consult your pediatrician if you have questions about health effects for children in your home.

Utilities serving Memphis

Common questions

Does Memphis have lead service lines?

Memphis's water system inventories currently show no confirmed lead service lines. However, data collection is ongoing, and older homes built before 1986 may have lead pipes that haven't been surveyed yet. Contact Memphis Light, Gas, & Water to check your specific address.

How do I know if my house has a lead service line?

Call Memphis Light, Gas, & Water with your address; they can tell you the material of your service line. You can also have a licensed plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home.

Is tap water in Memphis safe to drink?

Memphis Light, Gas, & Water regularly tests drinking water and publishes a water quality report. If you're concerned about lead specifically, you can request free or low-cost testing from your utility or use an inexpensive home testing kit.

What should I do if I think I have lead in my water?

Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, use cold water only for consumption, and contact your utility to request water testing. For health concerns, especially if you have children, speak with your pediatrician or the CDC.