Lead Service Lines in New Jersey
New Jersey's 3,421 water systems serve about 9.5 million people. As of the latest available data, utilities across the state have identified approximately 147,135 lead service lines — pipes that connect homes to the main water distribution system. These are the most common source of lead in drinking water for homes built before the 1980s.
Why lead service lines matter
A lead service line can leach lead into your water, especially if the water is corrosive or your pipes are old. Even brief exposure can affect children's development and cause health problems in adults. The only way to eliminate this risk is to replace the line.
What New Jersey utilities are doing
The state's largest utilities include Veolia Water New Jersey Hackensack (serving 792,713 people, with 20,736 known lead lines) and NJ American Water – Raritan (serving 615,430 people, with 9,906 known lead lines). Smaller systems like Newark Water Department serve 294,274 residents but currently report zero identified lead lines, though replacement efforts may be ongoing.
State law requires water systems to test for lead at the tap and notify customers if levels exceed safety standards. Many utilities have begun replacement programs, but progress varies. New Jersey has not yet received federal infrastructure funding to accelerate replacements statewide.
Find your water system
Use LeadPipeCheck to search for your local utility and see how many lead lines have been identified in your area. If your system has a significant number of known lead lines, ask your utility about their replacement timeline and whether they offer customer assistance programs.
What you can do right now
If you're concerned about lead in your home's water, request a free or low-cost tap water test from your utility. Results will tell you whether action is needed. Even with a lead service line present, water treatment and simple steps (like flushing your pipes) can reduce risk while you plan for replacement.
Next steps for residents
- Search LeadPipeCheck to find your water utility and see known lead line counts in your area.
- Contact your utility directly to ask if your home has a lead service line and what replacement options are available.
- Request a tap water test to measure lead levels in your drinking water.
- Call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 with questions about health or testing.