Lead Pipe Replacement Grants and Funding — Mississippi

Federal and State Money Available

Mississippi has access to federal funding for lead service line replacement through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). These programs help water utilities and homeowners pay for removing lead pipes—a key source of lead in drinking water.

The state's DWSRF program prioritizes disadvantaged communities, meaning low-income areas get first access to below-interest or no-interest loans. Mississippi reserves a portion of DWSRF money specifically for these communities to reduce out-of-pocket costs for homeowners.

What Funding Covers

DWSRF loans typically help water systems pay for:

Identifying and mapping lead service lines
Replacing lead pipes on both public and private (homeowner) sides
System-wide water main improvements
Testing and monitoring

If your water utility receives DWSRF funds, you may be eligible for a loan with favorable terms—sometimes 0% interest over 20 years—rather than a grant. The difference matters: a grant is free money; a loan must be repaid (though at much lower rates than commercial borrowing).

How to Find Out if Your Utility Has Funding

Your water utility is your best source. Contact them and ask:

"Do you have a DWSRF Intended Use Plan?" (This document lists which projects get funded each year.)
"Are you planning lead service line replacement, and am I eligible?"
"Do you offer financial assistance for homeowners on the private side of the line?"

Mississippi's Department of Health, Office of Drinking Water, oversees the DWSRF program and can also direct you to active projects in your area.

What Homeowners Should Know

Even if federal money reaches your utility, replacing the homeowner's side of the lead service line (from the main to your home) is often the homeowner's responsibility. Some utilities offer assistance programs or can connect you with state resources. Always ask.

If you rent, contact your landlord or property manager—they are typically responsible for interior plumbing.

Next Steps for Residents

Contact your water utility directly and ask if they have lead service line replacement funding or programs planned.
Ask about disadvantaged-community programs if your area qualifies for priority funding.
Request a lead service line inventory (if your utility has completed one) to confirm whether your home has a lead line.
Check the EPA's Water Finance Center for links to Mississippi's DWSRF program details and contact information.

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```json [ { "q": "Does Mississippi have state grants for homeowners to replace lead pipes?", "a": "Mississippi uses federal DWSRF loans (not grants) for lead service line replacement, with priority given to disadvantaged communities. Contact your water utility to ask if they are funding lead pipe replacement and whether they offer homeowner assistance programs." }, { "q": "How much does lead pipe replacement cost in Mississippi?", "a": "Costs vary by location and line depth but typically range from $3,000 to $25,000 per home. Your water utility or a licensed plumber can provide a specific estimate. Ask your utility about DWSRF loans, which often offer 0% interest terms." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "Your water utility may have a map or inventory. Call them and ask. You can also request a free or low-cost water test from your utility or a certified lab to check for lead; high levels suggest a lead line." }, { "q": "Who pays for lead pipe replacement—me or the water company?", "a": "It depends on where the pipe is. The utility typically replaces the portion on public property; the homeowner is responsible for the private side (from the main to your home). Some utilities offer financial

Lead pipe replacement grants and funding in Mississippi