LeadPipeLookup

State overview

Lead service lines in Pennsylvania

Aggregated lead pipe inventory data for all 7,303 public water systems in Pennsylvania, serving approximately 12,606,889 residents.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
7,303
Population served
12,606,889
Known lead lines
0
Unknown material
0

Lead Service Lines in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania serves over 12.6 million people through 7,303 water systems. Lead service lines—the pipes that connect water mains to individual homes—are a concern in many older communities across the state, particularly in cities built before the 1980s when lead pipes were common.

What we know about lead pipes in Pennsylvania

Currently, there is no statewide public data showing how many lead service lines exist in Pennsylvania's water systems. This doesn't mean the problem doesn't exist—it means utilities are still in the early stages of mapping their infrastructure or haven't made inventories public yet.

The six largest water systems in the state serve nearly 4 million residents:

  • Philadelphia Water Department (1.6 million)
  • AQUA PA Main System (822,600)
  • PA American Water Co–Pittsburgh (686,000)
  • Pittsburgh Water & Sewer Authority (520,000)
  • Erie City Water Authority (220,001)
  • York Water Co (206,762)

If you live in or near these cities, your utility may have more detailed information about lead service lines in your neighborhood.

Why this matters

Lead can leach into drinking water when it comes into contact with acidic water or corroded pipes. Even low levels of lead exposure over time can affect health, especially in children and pregnant people. The only way to know if your home has a lead service line is to contact your water utility or have your water tested.

What Pennsylvania is doing

Pennsylvania has not yet received federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding for lead service line replacement. However, the EPA requires all water systems to maintain and update lead service line inventories by October 2024, so your utility should have this information available.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility directly to ask if your address has a lead service line. Most utilities can tell you based on your street address and the age of your neighborhood.
  • Request a water test if you're concerned. Many utilities offer free or low-cost testing; some provide filters or treatment options.
  • Check the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 if you can't reach your local utility or need guidance.
  • Visit your utility's website for their lead service line inventory (if public) and any replacement programs they may offer.

Largest public water systems in Pennsylvania

UtilityPWSIDPopulationKnown leadUnknown
PHILADELPHIA WATER DEPARTMENTPA15100011,600,000——
AQUA PA MAIN SYSTEMPA1460073822,600——
PA AMER WATER CO-PITTSBURGHPA5020039686,000——
PITTSBURGH WATER & SEWER AUTHPA5020038520,000——
ERIE CITY WATER AUTHORITYPA6250028220,001——
YORK WATER COPA7670100206,762——
WEST VIEW WATER AUTHORITYPA5020043200,000——
MAWC SWEENEY PLANTPA5650032143,000——
CHESTER WATER AUTHORITYPA1230004140,437——
PA AMER WATER CO LAKE SCRANTONPA2359008134,570——
MAWC YOUGH PLANTPA5260036133,000——
WILKINSBURG-PENN JT WATER AUTHPA5020056125,000——
CITY OF LANCASTERPA7360058120,000——
LCA ALLENTOWN DIVISIONPA3390024118,000——
CITY OF BETHLEHEMPA3480046117,259——
VEOLIA WATERPA7220015110,000——
PA AMERICAN WATER CO WESTPA7210029105,127——
EASTON AREA WATER SYSTEMPA348005096,867——
READING AREA WATER AUTHORITYPA306005995,100——
NORTH PENN WATER AUTHORITYPA146003491,941——
PA AMERICAN NORRISTOWNPA146004688,885——
NORTH WALES WATER AUTHORITYPA146004872,496——
STATE COLLEGE BORO WATER AUTHPA414009672,000——
CAPITAL REGION WATERPA722004966,540——
LOWER BUCKS CO JOINT MUN AUTHPA109002663,007——

Cities in Pennsylvania

More on lead pipes in Pennsylvania

Frequently asked about lead pipes in Pennsylvania

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

Contact your water utility directly—they maintain records of service line materials by address. You can usually find contact information on your water bill or the utility's website. Alternatively, a plumber can inspect the pipe where it enters your home.

Is there lead in Pennsylvania tap water?

Lead in tap water comes from corroded pipes and service lines, not from the water source itself. Not all Pennsylvania homes have lead lines, but older properties in urban areas are at higher risk. Testing your water is the most reliable way to know your home's status.

What should I do if my house has a lead service line?

Use cold water for drinking and cooking, flush pipes for 30 seconds before use, and consider a certified filter. Some utilities offer replacement programs or financial assistance. Contact your water utility to ask about available options and any upcoming projects in your area.

Is Pennsylvania replacing lead service lines?

Replacement programs vary by utility and depend on state and federal funding. Contact your specific water system to ask about their timeline and whether you qualify for assistance or cost-sharing programs.