MALAGA COUNTY WATER DISTRICT Lead Service Line Inventory

Malaga County Water District serves about 5,979 people in California. Like many water systems across the US, the district is required by federal law to identify and replace lead service lines—the pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street into individual homes.

What we know about lead lines here

The district has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the exact number of homes that may have lead pipes is unknown at this time. The district uses groundwater as its primary water source.

Why lead service lines matter

Lead service lines can leach lead into drinking water, especially in homes with acidic water or where water sits in pipes for long periods. Children and pregnant people are at highest risk from lead exposure. Even small amounts of lead can affect child development.

If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead—though homes built after that date can too. The only way to know for certain is to have your specific service line checked by a professional or to contact your water utility.

What you can do right now

Contact the district directly. Ask whether your address has been surveyed for lead service lines, and whether your home's service line has been identified as lead, galvanized (which can also leach lead), or non-lead.

Test your tap water. Your water utility may offer free or low-cost testing. If you pay for testing, labs certified by your state can detect lead. Testing both cold water (after the line has sat overnight) and hot water can help identify whether your service line is the source.

Use interim measures while you wait for your line to be replaced. Run cold water for 30 seconds to a few minutes before drinking or cooking to flush out stagnant water. Don't use hot water for drinking or cooking (hot water dissolves lead faster). Consider a certified lead-reduction filter on your kitchen tap as a temporary step.

Funding for replacement

Information about whether the district has received federal funding for lead service line replacement is not yet available. Check back with the district or this page for updates.

Next steps for residents

• Call Malaga County Water District and ask about your home's service line status and water testing options.
• Test your tap water if you're concerned—your utility may provide free testing kits.
• Use cold water for drinking and cooking until you learn more about your service line.
• Ask about replacement timelines and any assistance programs available to help cover costs.

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```json [ { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "Contact your water utility and ask about your address. They may have already surveyed it. You can also have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home, or dig it up to see the material. If your home was built before 1986, the risk is higher." }, { "q": "Is lead in water dangerous for kids?", "a": "Yes. Even small amounts of lead can affect how children's brains develop, lowering IQ and affecting learning and behavior. Talk to your pediatrician about testing your child if you suspect lead exposure. The CDC has detailed information on lead and children's health." }, { "q": "What should I do if I think my water has lead?", "a": "Test your water through your utility or a certified lab. Use cold water for drinking and cooking, and run the tap for 30 seconds to a few minutes before use to flush stagnant water. Ask your utility about lead service line replacement programs and timelines." }, { "q": "Will my water utility replace my lead service line?", "a": "Federal law requires water systems to replace lead service lines, but timelines vary. Contact Malaga County Water District to ask about their replacement plan, costs you may owe, and any assistance available." } ]