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Lead pipe replacement grants and funding in Montana

What grants and funding are available to replace lead pipes in Montana?

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
2,386
Known lead
0
Unknown
0
BIL funding
$0M

Lead Pipe Replacement Grants and Funding in Montana

What funding is available for lead pipe replacement?

Montana homeowners and water systems have access to federal and state funding to help pay for replacing lead service lines. The main source is the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), which provides low-interest loans and grants to water systems for infrastructure upgrades, including lead line removal.

Water systems serving Montana's 1.1 million residents can apply for DWSRF money through the state's Intended Use Plan. A portion of these funds—set aside specifically for disadvantaged communities—helps ensure that lower-income areas get access to replacement programs.

Federal funding: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (also called the Inflation Reduction Act) allocated funding nationally for lead service line replacement. While Montana's specific allocation for homeowner reimbursement has not yet been fully deployed in all districts, these funds are flowing to states and water systems. Contact your local water utility to ask whether they've received or plan to use this federal money for lead line replacement programs.

How Montana water systems use this funding

Most Montana water systems use DWSRF grants and loans to:

  • Identify which homes have lead service lines
  • Replace lead lines at no cost or low cost to homeowners
  • Upgrade water treatment to reduce corrosion that releases lead

Because Montana has 2,386 water systems serving varying population sizes, programs differ by utility. A large city utility may fund replacement through grants; a smaller rural system may offer low-interest payment plans.

What homeowners need to do

Your first step is to contact your water utility directly. Ask:

  • Do they have a lead line replacement program?
  • Is your home eligible?
  • What is the cost to you (free, subsidized, or loan-based)?
  • What is the timeline?

Many utilities maintain waiting lists and prioritize homes with children under age 6 or pregnant residents, since young children are most vulnerable to lead exposure.

Next steps for residents

  • Call or email your water utility and ask if they offer lead service line replacement assistance or know of programs in your area.
  • Ask about eligibility: income limits, property type, and timeline for replacement.
  • Request a line inspection if you're unsure whether your home has a lead service line (usually free or low-cost from the utility).
  • Check the EPA's Safer Water Infrastructure map and your state's DWSRF office for additional program details and contact information.

Related topics in Montana

Common questions

Is lead pipe replacement free in Montana?

It depends on your water utility and income level. Many Montana utilities offer free or heavily subsidized replacement through DWSRF grants or federal funding, especially for low-income households. Contact your local water provider to learn what they offer.

How do I know if my house has lead pipes?

Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead service lines. Your water utility can inspect your line or provide guidance on how to check. Some utilities offer free inspections as part of their lead inventory.

How long does lead pipe replacement take?

Replacement typically takes 1–3 days per home, though it depends on the line length and soil conditions. Your utility can give you a specific timeline when you apply.

Can I get money back if I already replaced my lead pipes?

Some utilities and states offer reimbursement programs for recent replacements, but eligibility varies. Ask your water provider if they have a reimbursement option or know of state programs.