Lead service lines in Topsham, ME
Most homes in Topsham get water from the Brunswick/Topsham Water District, which serves about 18,863 people in the area. The town is also served by six smaller water systems that provide water to schools, businesses, and mobile home parks.
What we know about lead service lines in Topsham
Lead service lines are pipes that connect homes to the public water main. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead—especially in New England, where they were common.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection requires water utilities to maintain inventories of known lead service lines. For Topsham's largest utility (Brunswick/Topsham Water District), that inventory data has not yet been made fully public. The smaller utilities serving Topsham also have not disclosed their lead service line counts in publicly available records.
This does not mean there are no lead service lines in Topsham. It means the data hasn't been published yet. The federal Lead and Copper Rule requires all water systems to complete their service line inventories by October 2024.
Why this matters
Lead can leach into drinking water as it passes through old pipes. At high levels, lead exposure poses serious health risks, especially for young children and pregnant people. Even low levels of exposure can affect learning and development.
The good news: lead in water is preventable. A simple water test, a point-of-use filter, or replacing the service line can eliminate the risk.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about your service line material. Call the Brunswick/Topsham Water District at their customer service line, or visit their website.
- Test your water if your home was built before 1986 or if you're concerned. Maine's Department of Environmental Protection can direct you to certified labs.
- Use a filter while you investigate. NSF-certified filters reduce lead in drinking water. Look for one certified for lead removal (typically under the sink or pitcher-style).
- Check if your service line qualifies for replacement funding. Some Maine programs offer cost assistance.