Lead Pipe Replacement Grants and Funding in Georgia
Georgia has access to federal and state funding streams to help pay for lead service line replacement, though the landscape is still evolving. If you own your home and have a lead pipe connecting your property to the water main, several programs may help cover the cost.
Federal Funding: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (also called the Inflation Reduction Act) allocated substantial money nationwide for lead pipe removal. Georgia water systems are eligible to apply for these grants through the EPA. However, the amount specifically awarded to Georgia systems has not been publicly disclosed yet, and funding depends on system-by-system applications. Contact your local water utility to ask whether they've applied or plan to apply for these federal dollars—and whether homeowner assistance is included in their application.
Georgia's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)
Georgia manages a Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that provides low-interest loans and grants to water systems for infrastructure improvements, including lead service line replacement. A portion of DWSRF funding is set aside for disadvantaged communities. The exact percentage and current funding amounts are managed by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).
If your water system receives DWSRF support, they may use it to replace lead pipes on public property (the main to the meter). Whether homeowners receive assistance for the private side (meter to house) varies by system and depends on how they structure the program.
State-Level Homeowner Programs
Georgia does not currently operate a dedicated homeowner reimbursement program for lead pipe replacement. However, some water utilities have begun offering assistance programs directly. Check with your local utility to see if they:
- Offer discounted or free replacement on the public side
- Provide cost-sharing for the private side
- Have partnerships with nonprofits or state agencies offering grants
How to Find Out What's Available for Your Home
Your water utility is the starting point. They know which funding sources they've tapped, what work they're planning, and whether homeowners can access any assistance.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility directly — ask if they've received or applied for federal lead replacement funding, and what assistance homeowners can access.
- Check the EPD website for updates on DWSRF grants and loans available to your system.
- Ask about testing — many utilities offer free or low-cost water testing to identify lead in your home's pipes.
- Document your lead pipes — if you know you have a lead service line, share that information with your utility; it may prioritize your property for replacement work.
```json [ { "q": "Does Georgia have a grant to replace lead pipes in my house?", "a": "Georgia does not have a dedicated state homeowner grant program for lead pipe replacement. However, federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding is available to water systems, and your utility may offer assistance. Contact your local water utility to ask about any programs they offer or have applied for." }, { "q": "Who pays for lead pipe replacement in Georgia?", "a": "Responsibility depends on location: water utilities typically replace the public side (main to meter) using grants or low-interest loans, while homeowners are often responsible for the private side (meter to house). Some utilities offer cost-sharing or full assistance—ask yours what they provide." }, { "q": "How much does it cost to replace a lead service line in Georgia?", "a": "The cost varies widely based on property access, pipe depth, and local labor rates—typically $1,500 to $3,000+ per home. Your utility or a licensed plumber can provide a specific estimate for your property." }, { "q": "Can I get my water tested for lead in Georgia?", "a": "Yes. Many Georgia water utilities offer free or low-cost testing. Contact your local water system to request a test kit or find an EPA-certified