Lead pipe replacement grants and funding — Kentucky

If you have a lead service line, you may qualify for state or federal grant money to help pay for replacement. Kentucky has several programs available, though funding and eligibility vary by utility and location.

Kentucky's main funding sources

Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)

Kentucky's DWSRF program provides low-interest loans and grants to water utilities for infrastructure improvements, including lead service line replacement. The state directs a portion of these funds specifically to disadvantaged communities—typically those with lower incomes or higher lead exposure risk. Contact your local water utility to ask if they participate in the DWSRF program and whether your property qualifies for grant assistance or a subsidized loan.

Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA/Bipartisan Infrastructure Law)

Federal funding from IIJA has been allocated to states for water infrastructure, including lead removal. However, Kentucky's specific allocation amount and how those funds are being distributed across utilities is best confirmed directly with your water system or the Kentucky Division of Water.

Utility-specific programs

Some larger Kentucky water systems offer their own lead replacement assistance or rebate programs for homeowners. These vary widely—some cover partial costs, others cover full replacement. Your utility may also offer payment plans that spread the cost over several years, making the out-of-pocket expense more manageable.

How to find out what you qualify for

Start by contacting your water utility directly. Ask:

• Does your system have a lead service line replacement program?
• Are there grants or subsidized loans available to homeowners in your area?
• Does your utility participate in the DWSRF?
• What is the typical cost of replacement, and does the utility handle the work or refer you to contractors?

Your utility should also have an inventory of known or suspected lead service lines in your area. If you're unsure whether your home has a lead line, they can often tell you based on your address and the year your house was built.

Next steps for residents

• Contact your water utility — ask about lead service line replacement programs and funding options available in your service area.
• Ask about your home's service line material — utilities often know the composition based on construction records or past inspections.
• Get cost estimates — if your utility doesn't perform replacements, ask for contractor referrals so you can compare prices.
• Inquire about payment plans — even without grants, many utilities allow customers to spread replacement costs over time on their water bill.

```json [ { "q": "Does Kentucky have money available to pay for lead pipe replacement?", "a": "Yes. Kentucky's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund provides grants and low-interest loans to water utilities for lead removal projects, with funding reserved for disadvantaged communities. Some utilities also offer their own homeowner assistance programs. Contact your local water utility to ask what's available in your area." }, { "q": "How much does it cost to replace a lead service line in Kentucky?", "a": "Costs vary by location and labor rates, but typically range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more. Your water utility can provide a local cost estimate. Many utilities offer payment plans, and some cover part or all of the cost through grants or utility-funded programs." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "Contact your water utility with your address. They often know the pipe material based on when your home was built and previous inspections. If uncertain, you can have a plumber inspect your line, or request a lead test of your water from your utility." }, { "q": "Does Kentucky's DWSRF program cover homeowner lead pipe replacement?", "a": "The DWSRF provides funding to water utilities, not directly to homeowners, but utilities use these funds to subsidize or fully cover lead replacement for qualified residents. Ask your utility whether they use DWSRF