LeadPipeLookup

Vermont › Topic

Lead pipe replacement grants and funding in Vermont

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

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
1,357
Known lead
0
Unknown
0
BIL funding
$0M

Lead Pipe Replacement Grants and Funding — Vermont

Federal and State Funding Overview

Vermont has access to federal infrastructure funding to help communities and homeowners replace lead service lines, but the state has not yet allocated Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding specifically for lead pipe replacement as of the latest available data.

The primary funding mechanism for water infrastructure improvements in Vermont is the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). This program provides low-interest loans to water systems for projects that improve public health and water quality—including lead service line removal and replacement.

Disadvantaged Community Set-Aside

Vermont dedicates 15% of DWSRF funding to projects in disadvantaged communities. This means small towns and lower-income areas may qualify for grants or forgiveness programs (not just loans) for lead pipe replacement. If your water system serves a disadvantaged community, you may be eligible for reduced-cost or free replacement services.

To find out if your area qualifies, contact your local water utility directly. They can tell you whether your system participates in DWSRF and what programs you may access.

How DWSRF Works for Homeowners

In most cases, the water system applies for a DWSRF loan and uses those funds to replace lead service lines on the utility side of the meter. Some utilities may offer rebates or assistance to homeowners who replace the private (in-home) portion of the line at the same time.

There is no statewide homeowner reimbursement program in Vermont currently documented. However, individual utilities may offer cost-sharing arrangements. Check with your water provider to ask what options exist in your area.

Next Steps for Residents

  • Contact your water utility and ask: (1) Does your system have a lead service line replacement program? (2) Are you eligible for DWSRF funding or disadvantaged-community grants? (3) What is your cost share, if any?
  • Check your water bill or utility website for information on lead service lines and replacement programs.
  • Ask about private line replacement assistance — even if the utility doesn't fund it, they can advise on contractors and timeline.
  • Request your service line material from your utility if you don't know whether yours is lead.

---

Related topics in Vermont

Common questions

Does Vermont have state money for homeowners to replace lead pipes?

Vermont does not have a dedicated statewide homeowner reimbursement program. However, individual water utilities may offer cost-sharing or rebates through federal Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) loans. Contact your local utility to ask what assistance is available in your area.

What is the Vermont DWSRF and how does it help with lead pipes?

The DWSRF is a federal-state loan program that funds water infrastructure projects, including lead service line replacement. Water systems can borrow at low interest rates. Vermont sets aside 15% of DWSRF funds for disadvantaged communities, which may qualify for grants or loan forgiveness rather than full repayment.

Is my town eligible for Vermont lead pipe replacement grants?

If your community is classified as disadvantaged (based on income or population), you may qualify for DWSRF grant funding. Ask your water utility whether your system is eligible and has applied for lead replacement funding.

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

Contact your water utility and ask for your service line material. Many utilities have inventories or can tell you based on your address and when your home was connected. If uncertain, a plumber can inspect the line where it enters your home.