Lead Service Lines in West Virginia
West Virginia serves about 1.6 million people through 773 public water systems. Currently, the state has not reported any confirmed lead service lines in its inventory data—though this doesn't mean lead lines aren't present in your community. Many water systems are still in the process of surveying their pipelines, so incomplete data is normal at this stage.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are pipes that connect the water main under the street to your home. If your line is lead, drinking water can pick up lead as it travels through. Even small amounts of lead in drinking water are a concern, especially for children and pregnant people. The good news: lead in water is preventable with the right steps.
What West Virginia water systems are doing
The largest utilities in the state—including the Kanawha Valley District (serving 209,283 people), Huntington District (98,647 people), and Morgantown Utility Board (64,644 people)—have not yet publicly reported lead line counts. This suggests they may still be completing their inventories. Federal rules require all water systems to identify lead and galvanized service lines and share that information with customers by 2025.
West Virginia has not yet received federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (BIPARTISAN Infrastructure Law) funding specifically designated for lead line replacement as of the latest available data. This means residents may have fewer financing options for removal than in other states—though your utility may offer payment plans or rebates.
How to find out about your service line
Your water utility is your best source. Call or visit their website and ask:
- "Do you know if my service line is lead, copper, or galvanized?"
- "Do you have an inventory map I can check?"
- "What testing or replacement programs do you offer?"
If your utility doesn't have definitive answers yet, ask when their inventory will be complete.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your local water utility directly with your address and ask about your service line material
- Request a free water test if your utility offers one, especially if you have young children or are pregnant
- Visit the CDC's lead in drinking water page for health information and home testing kits if needed
- Ask about replacement programs – some utilities offer cost-sharing or low-interest loans for line replacement