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LCRR utility compliance status in Massachusetts

How are Massachusetts water utilities doing on EPA LCRR compliance?

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
1,651
Known lead
0
Unknown
0
BIL funding
$0M

Lead Service Line Compliance in Massachusetts

Massachusetts water utilities serve about 10.3 million people across 1,651 public water systems. Under the federal Lead and Copper Rule Revision (LCRR), all of these systems are required to create and submit inventories of their lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line to individual homes—by October 2024.

What Massachusetts utilities reported

As of October 2024, Massachusetts utilities submitted their lead service line inventories to the state primacy agency (the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection). The data shows that across the state's water systems, the number of lead service lines identified as "known" is currently recorded as 0, with 0 lines classified as "unknown." This suggests either that utilities have completed their surveys with high confidence, or that reporting and data consolidation is still underway at the state level.

It's important to note that final compliance determinations and enforcement actions—if any—typically take several months after the October deadline. The state primacy agency is responsible for reviewing each utility's inventory for completeness and accuracy.

Why this matters for your home

If you live in Massachusetts, your water utility should be able to tell you whether your home has a lead service line. Even if utilities report low or zero lead service lines statewide, individual systems may have found lines during their surveys. The only way to know for certain is to contact your local water provider.

Lead service lines are a significant health concern because lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water is corrosive or if pipes are old. The EPA and CDC recommend that homes with lead service lines use filters certified for lead reduction or consider replacing the line.

Finding your utility's inventory

Massachusetts utilities are required to make their inventories available to the public. You can contact your local water system directly to ask about your property's service line status, or check your utility's website for published inventory data. The state may also have posted aggregate compliance information on its website.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility and ask whether your address is served by a lead service line.
  • Request a water test if you're concerned about lead levels; your utility can provide guidance or may offer free testing.
  • Check your utility's website for the published lead service line inventory.
  • Talk to your pediatrician or call the CDC hotline (1-800-CDC-INFO) if you have health concerns, especially if you have young children.

Related topics in Massachusetts

Common questions

How do I know if my house in Massachusetts has a lead service line?

Contact your local water utility and ask about your property's service line. Utilities are required to maintain and share their lead service line inventories. You can also look at old property records or have a plumber inspect your home's water line if you want a physical check.

What is the Lead and Copper Rule Revision and why does it matter?

The LCRR is a federal EPA rule that requires all water utilities to identify and report lead service lines in their systems by October 2024. It's designed to give homeowners and utilities better information so they can take steps to reduce lead exposure.

Are there grants or funding to replace lead service lines in Massachusetts?

Funding sources vary by utility and may include state programs, federal infrastructure grants, or utility-sponsored replacement programs. Contact your water utility to ask what assistance is available in your area.

What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?

Use only cold tap water for drinking and cooking, flush the line before use, and consider installing a certified lead-reduction filter. Call your pediatrician if you have young children, and contact your utility to discuss next steps.