Lead Service Lines in CULLMAN COUNTY WATER DEPARTMENT
What we know about lead pipes here
Cullman County Water Department serves about 56,600 people in Alabama. The utility draws its water from surface sources (lakes or rivers).
As of now, the utility has not completed a public inventory of lead service lines. This means they haven't yet surveyed and reported how many lead pipes connect homes to the water main in their service area. That's different from saying there are no lead pipes—it's simply that the count isn't available yet.
Why this matters for your home
A lead service line is the pipe that runs from the water main (in the street) to your house. If yours is made of lead, drinking water can pick up lead as it travels through. Lead exposure is a real health risk, especially for young children and pregnant people.
You may still have a lead service line even if your utility hasn't published an inventory. Lead pipes were legal and common in the US for much of the 20th century. Older neighborhoods and homes built before the 1980s are higher risk.
What you can do right now
Contact Cullman County Water Department directly. Ask them:
- Whether your property address has a lead service line
- What records they have on file (many utilities keep individual property records even if they haven't published a full inventory yet)
- Whether they have a replacement program or timeline for removing lead lines
If your utility can't confirm your line's material, you can arrange a professional inspection or water test. The EPA provides guidance on both.
Next steps for residents
- Call your water utility and ask about your specific address. Provide your street address and account number if you have it.
- If you suspect a lead line, ask about water testing kits or low-cost testing programs available through your county health department.
- For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or local health department—not the water utility.
- Consider flushing water before drinking or cooking if you haven't used a tap for several hours (lead accumulates in standing water).
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
Contact Cullman County Water Department with your address—they may have records on file. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your house, or arrange a water test through your health department.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Yes, lead exposure poses real health risks, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. Talk to your pediatrician or doctor about testing and steps to reduce exposure. The CDC has detailed guidance online.
Can I remove my lead service line myself?
No. Service line replacement must be done by a licensed plumber. Call Cullman County Water Department to ask about assistance programs or rebates that might offset the cost.
Does boiling or filtering remove lead from water?
Boiling does not remove lead. Certain water filters (NSF-certified for lead reduction) can help, but they require regular replacement. A water test will tell you whether filtration is needed for your home.