Guides

Long-form, primary-source-cited reference material on lead in US drinking water. Updated whenever the underlying regulations or data change.

Regulation

The EPA Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) in plain English — what every homeowner should know
A no-jargon explainer of the 2024 federal rule that required every US water utility to publish a lead pipe inventory. Deadlines, definitions, and what it changes for you.
9 min read · updated 2026-04-10
Your utility says your service line is 'unknown'. Here's what that really means
'Unknown' is not 'probably fine.' EPA requires utilities to treat unknowns as lead until proven otherwise. What to ask your utility and how to escalate.
8 min read · updated 2026-04-10

Homeowner how-to

How to test your tap water for lead: a step-by-step guide for homeowners
Certified labs, flushing procedures, first-draw vs running samples, and what the numbers on the report actually mean.
11 min read · updated 2026-04-10

Funding & policy

Who pays to replace your lead service line? A guide to BIL, DWSRF, and utility programs
$15B in federal funding is flowing to utilities under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Here's how that money reaches your pipe — and what to do if it hasn't.
12 min read · updated 2026-04-10

Health & children

Blood lead levels in children: CDC guidance, screening ages, and what the numbers mean
The CDC reference value dropped from 5 to 3.5 µg/dL in 2021. How to read a capillary vs venous result, when Medicaid requires screening, and what to do after an elevated test.
10 min read · updated 2026-04-10

Replacement technology

Copper vs PEX vs PVC: what utilities are using for lead service line replacement
The material choice utilities make when replacing your service line affects durability, water chemistry, and cost. A plain-English comparison of the three dominant options in 2024-2026.
9 min read · updated 2026-04-10