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Lead service lines in Wilmington, DE

20 water utilities serve Wilmington, with approximately 215,563 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
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Lead Service Lines in Wilmington, DE

Wilmington's water system serves about 215,563 residents through 20 water utilities. The two largest—Wilmington Water Department (serving ~107,976 people) and Veolia Water Delaware, Inc. (serving ~100,495 people)—together provide water to the vast majority of the city.

What we know about lead in Wilmington

The data available on lead service lines in Wilmington is currently incomplete. None of the major utilities have reported a confirmed count of lead service lines in their inventories. This doesn't mean there are no lead lines—it means the surveys and records either haven't been completed, aren't public yet, or are still being compiled.

Lead service lines are pipes that connect your home to the water main under the street. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead, since lead pipes were widely used for water distribution before federal restrictions took effect.

Why this matters

Lead in drinking water comes primarily from service lines and household plumbing, not from the water treatment process itself. Even low levels of lead exposure can affect children's development and learning. The CDC recommends that anyone concerned about lead in their water—especially families with young children or pregnant people—contact their water utility or have their water tested.

Get your water tested

Testing is the only way to know if lead is present in your home's water. Wilmington Water Department and Veolia Water Delaware can provide guidance on free or low-cost testing programs. You can also contact your utility to ask about their lead service line inventory status and any ongoing replacement programs.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility to ask about lead service line inventory data and free testing programs. Use the utility name and ID listed below.
  • Request a water test if you have a home built before 1986 or are concerned about lead exposure.
  • Ask about replacement programs — some utilities offer financial assistance to help remove lead service lines from private property.
  • Consult a pediatrician or the CDC if you have health concerns, especially for children under 6 or pregnant individuals.

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Utilities serving Wilmington

Common questions

Does Wilmington have lead service lines?

The exact number of lead service lines in Wilmington is not yet publicly available from the major water utilities. Wilmington Water Department and Veolia Water Delaware have not reported confirmed counts. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher likelihood your service line contains lead.

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

Contact your water utility (Wilmington Water Department or Veolia Water Delaware) and ask about your service line material. They can check their records. You can also have your water tested for lead, which reveals whether lead is entering your home regardless of pipe material.

Is lead in Wilmington's tap water dangerous?

Lead in drinking water poses health risks, especially to young children and pregnant people. The CDC recommends testing your water if you're concerned. Your water utility or local health department can explain testing options and safe water practices.

Can I get help replacing a lead service line in Wilmington?

Some water utilities offer rebates or financial assistance for lead service line replacement on private property. Contact Wilmington Water Department or Veolia Water Delaware to ask about current programs and eligibility.