Lead Service Lines in Nashville, TN
Nashville's water systems serve approximately 849,685 people across 8 utilities. The largest is Metro Water Services, which supplies 778,153 residents.
What we know about lead service lines in Nashville
Lead service lines are the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to your home. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead.
Currently, none of Nashville's water systems have reported confirmed lead service lines in their inventories. However, this does not mean lead service lines don't exist in Nashville—it means utilities either haven't completed their surveys yet or haven't found them. The absence of reported lead is different from the absence of lead.
Why this matters
Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water sits in pipes overnight or if pipes are corroded. Children under 6 are most vulnerable to lead exposure. Even low levels can affect development.
If you're concerned about lead in your home's water, the first step is contacting your water utility to ask about your service line. They may have records of when your home was connected, or they can advise you on testing options.
Your water utility
Metro Water Services (serving most of Nashville) manages the city's main water distribution. You can reach them to:
- Ask if your address has a lead service line
- Request a water quality test
- Learn about free or low-cost testing programs
- Find out about replacement programs or financial assistance
Smaller systems serving Nashville residents include Harpeth Valley U.D. and several smaller utilities. Contact your local provider directly if you're unsure which system serves your address.
Testing your water
If you suspect lead in your water, home test kits are available at hardware stores, though they vary in reliability. Your water utility or county health department can recommend certified testing labs. Some utilities offer free or subsidized testing—ask when you call.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about your service line and request any available records
- If concerned, request a professional water test through your utility or local health department
- If lead is found, utilities sometimes offer replacement programs—ask about eligibility and funding
- For health questions, consult your pediatrician or the CDC's lead information page