LeadPipeLookup

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Lead service lines in Richmond, VA

69 water utilities serve Richmond, with approximately 248,564 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 Richmond, VA

Richmond's water systems serve approximately 248,564 people across 69 different utilities. The largest is the City of Richmond, which provides water to about 229,395 residents.

What we know about lead service lines in Richmond

Currently, there are no confirmed lead service lines reported in Richmond's public inventory data. However, this doesn't mean lead pipes aren't present—it often means the data isn't complete yet. Many older cities across the US are still in the process of mapping their underground pipes, which can take years to finish.

Lead service lines are pipes that connect your home to the main water line under the street. If your home was built before the 1980s, or especially before the 1950s, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead. Homes built in the 1980s or later are much less likely to have lead lines, since lead was phased out of plumbing materials over time.

Why this matters

Lead can leach into water, especially if your water is acidic or if pipes are old and corroded. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development. The CDC recommends that anyone concerned about lead in their water take simple steps like flushing their tap and using cold water for drinking and cooking.

How to find out about your home

The City of Richmond and other utilities in the area should have records showing whether your specific property has a lead service line. If you contact your water utility directly, they can tell you:

  • Whether your service line is lead, galvanized (steel), copper, or plastic
  • What material connects your home to the street
  • Whether any testing has been done on your water

If records aren't available, you can also have a plumber inspect your line or get your water tested for lead.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility with your address to ask about your service line material. For City of Richmond customers, reach out to the Department of Public Utilities.
  • Get your water tested if you're concerned. Many health departments offer low-cost testing kits.
  • Use cold water for drinking and cooking while you investigate, and flush your tap each morning before use.
  • Talk to your pediatrician if you have young children and want guidance on lead exposure risk.

Utilities serving Richmond

Common questions

Does Richmond Virginia have lead in the water?

Richmond's water systems currently report no confirmed lead service lines in their inventory data. However, data collection is often incomplete, and older pipes may still contain lead. Contact your utility directly to find out about your specific address.

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

Call the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities with your address and they can tell you what material your service line is made of. If records aren't available, you can hire a plumber to inspect it or have your water tested.

Is lead in water dangerous?

Lead can be harmful, especially for children and pregnant people. For health concerns, talk to your doctor or contact the CDC. In the meantime, use cold water for drinking and cooking, and flush your tap before use.

When did they stop using lead pipes in Richmond?

Lead was phased out of plumbing materials nationally during the 1980s, though some older pipes may still be in use. Homes built before the 1950s are at higher risk of having lead service lines.