Lead service lines in Waterford, CT
Waterford serves about 44,554 people through 5 water systems. The two largest utilities—New London Department of Public Utilities (27,620 people) and Waterford WPCA (16,578 people)—account for nearly all residential service in town.
What we know about lead in Waterford
Lead enters drinking water through lead service lines—pipes that connect the water main to your home. These pipes were common before the 1980s. Waterford's utilities have not yet reported their lead service line inventory data to the public database tracked here.
This does not mean your water is unsafe right now. It means the inventory is not yet available online. Many water systems nationwide are still completing their lead surveys, which Connecticut law requires by 2025.
What you should do now
Contact your water utility directly to ask:
- Does my address have a lead service line?
- What is your timeline for sharing the full inventory?
- Do you offer free or low-cost water testing?
The two utilities serving most of Waterford are:
- New London Department of Public Utilities: serves the northern portion
- Waterford WPCA: serves most of the town
If you are unsure which utility serves you, call Waterford's town offices or check your water bill.
Reducing lead exposure while you wait
If your home was built before 1980, assume your service line could contain lead. Simple steps reduce risk:
- Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (flushes the line)
- Use cold water only for drinking and cooking; hot water dissolves lead faster
- Clean faucet aerators regularly
- Consider a point-of-use filter certified for lead removal (NSF/ANSI Standard 53)
Pregnant people, infants, and young children face higher risk from lead. Contact your pediatrician or the CDC if you have health concerns.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility (see above) to request your service line status
- Use a filter certified for lead reduction while awaiting answers
- Ask about free testing programs your utility may offer
- Save your water bill—it has the utility's contact information