CTWC - SHORELINE REGION-CHESTER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
CTWC - SHORELINE REGION-CHESTER SYSTEM serves approximately 5,030 people in Connecticut. The system draws from surface water sources.
Lead Service Line Inventory Status
As of now, this water system has not yet completed a public lead service line inventory. That means the utility has not published a count of how many lead pipes connect homes to the water main in this service area.
Federal law requires all water systems to complete these inventories. Connecticut utilities are working toward this deadline, though timelines vary by system size and complexity. An incomplete inventory doesn't mean there are no lead lines—it means the work is still underway or results haven't been made public yet.
What You Can Do Right Now
Contact your water utility directly. Ask them:
- Do they have a draft or partial inventory available?
- What is their timeline for completing it?
- Does your specific street or address have known lead service lines?
The utility should be able to tell you whether your home's service line has been assessed, even if the full inventory isn't public yet.
Test your water at home. Lead enters drinking water primarily through old pipes and fixtures, not the source itself. A simple test kit (available at hardware stores) or a lab test can tell you if lead is present in your tap water. If results are high, flushing the line before use and using a pitcher filter are temporary steps; ultimately, replacing the line is the permanent solution.
Know the health angle. Lead in drinking water poses particular concern for young children and pregnant people. If you have concerns about exposure, your pediatrician or local health department can advise next steps.
What Happens Next
Connecticut utilities receiving federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) funding are prioritizing lead line replacement. If this system receives that funding, replacement work will begin in coming years. Watch for notices from your utility about replacement programs—many offer cost-sharing or full funding for homeowner portions of the work.
Next Steps for Residents
- Call your water utility (CTWC - SHORELINE REGION-CHESTER SYSTEM) and ask about their lead service line inventory timeline.
- Request information specific to your address.
- Consider testing your tap water if you're concerned about lead.
- Keep an eye out for utility notices about replacement programs, which may cover costs.
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 my house has a lead service line?
Contact your water utility with your address—they may have inspection records or can advise based on your home's age and area. You can also have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home. Lead is silver-gray, soft, and can be scraped with a coin.
Is my tap water safe to drink right now?
The only way to know is to test it. You can buy a kit at a hardware store or contact your local health department for low-cost lab testing. Flushing lines for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking can reduce lead, but a permanent fix is replacing the pipe.
Will my water utility replace my lead service line?
Many utilities now offer replacement programs, often at reduced or no cost to homeowners, especially if they receive federal infrastructure funding. Contact CTWC - SHORELINE REGION-CHESTER SYSTEM to ask about their program and whether you qualify.
What's the difference between my side of the service line and the utility's side?
The utility typically owns and maintains the line from the main to your property line. You own the line from the property line into your home. Replacement responsibility is often split, but programs vary—ask your utility about their policy.