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Lead pipe replacement grants and funding in Rhode Island

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

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
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BIL funding
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Lead Pipe Replacement Grants and Funding — Rhode Island

If you have a lead service line, replacing it is the only way to eliminate lead from your water at home. Rhode Island offers several funding pathways to help cover the cost.

Federal infrastructure money

Rhode Island received federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (passed in 2021) to support water infrastructure upgrades, including lead service line replacement. These funds flow through the state's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), which provides low-interest loans and grants to water systems and, in some cases, directly to homeowners.

The state's DWSRF program prioritizes disadvantaged communities—a required 15% set-aside of available funds goes to projects serving low-income households and small systems. If you qualify as a low-income household, you may be eligible for grants (not just loans) to cover replacement costs.

How to find out if you qualify

Contact your local water utility directly. They can tell you:

  • Whether your service line is lead or unknown
  • What replacement programs are available in your area
  • Whether you qualify for grant assistance based on household income

Different utilities in Rhode Island may offer different programs. Some may handle replacements through the utility itself; others may refer you to state programs.

Water system involvement

Water systems serving Rhode Island's 1.14 million residents are required to identify and inventory lead service lines. As of now, the exact number of known lead lines across the state is still being cataloged. Your utility can share their current inventory and replacement timeline with you.

State-specific programs

Rhode Island's Department of Environmental Management (DEM) oversees the DWSRF. The state may also coordinate with federal EPA programs to expand funding for lead removal, particularly in communities with documented lead contamination or vulnerable populations.

Check with your water utility or the Rhode Island DEM for the most current list of active grant programs, as funding allocations and eligibility rules can change.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility and ask: "Do I have a lead service line, and what replacement assistance programs are available?"
  • Ask about income-based assistance — mention if you might qualify for low-income grant programs.
  • Check with DEM at dem.ri.gov for state-level DWSRF details and any upcoming funding announcements.
  • Keep records of any utility correspondence about your service line and costs, in case you apply for reimbursement later.

Related topics in Rhode Island

Common questions

Does Rhode Island have a free lead pipe replacement program?

Funding depends on your water utility and household income. Some systems offer grants (free money) through the state's DWSRF, especially if you qualify as low-income. Contact your local water utility to ask what assistance is available in your area.

How much does it cost to replace a lead service line in Rhode Island?

Replacement costs vary widely—typically $3,000 to $25,000 depending on line length and soil conditions. Your water utility can provide a cost estimate. Grants and low-interest loans can cover part or all of this cost.

What is the Rhode Island DWSRF and how do I apply?

The DWSRF is the state's drinking water loan and grant program funded by federal and state money. You don't apply directly; your water utility applies on behalf of customers or coordinates individual homeowner assistance. Ask your utility whether they have an active DWSRF-funded replacement program.

How do I know if I have a lead service line?

Contact your water utility and ask. They maintain an inventory of service line materials. If your line is listed as unknown, the utility may be able to arrange testing or replacement through a funded program.