CTWC - NORTHERN REG-WESTERN SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory

What you need to know about lead service lines here

CTWC - NORTHERN REG-WESTERN SYSTEM serves about 101,313 people in Connecticut. The utility draws water from surface sources.

Current inventory status: The utility has not yet completed a public lead service line inventory. This means we don't have verified counts of how many homes are connected via lead pipes—or how many are lead-free. This is common; many water systems across the country are still building these inventories, which became a federal requirement under the Biden administration's lead pipe replacement initiative.

Why this matters

Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. When water sits in lead pipes or fixtures overnight, small amounts of lead can dissolve into it. Infants, young children, and pregnant people are at highest risk from lead exposure.

Your home may have a lead service line even if the water looks, smells, and tastes normal. The only way to know is through testing or a physical inspection by a plumber.

What the water system should be doing

All public water systems serving more than 15,000 people (this system serves over 100,000) must:

• Inventory all lead and galvanized service lines
• Test water at high-risk homes
• Develop a plan to replace lead lines
• Communicate results to the public

If your utility hasn't published its inventory yet, they're likely still gathering data from property records, old installation maps, and field inspections.

What you can do now

Get your water tested. Contact CTWC - NORTHERN REG-WESTERN SYSTEM and ask for a free or low-cost lead test, especially if your home was built before 1986.

Know your pipe material. If you can access your water meter or the spot where the main line enters your home, a plumber can often identify the material visually.

Don't wait for the inventory. Even if the utility hasn't finished cataloging lead lines, you don't have to wait to take action. Testing is available now.

Reduce exposure in the meantime. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking if the water hasn't been used for several hours. Use cold water for cooking and baby formula.

Next steps for residents

• Contact the utility at their customer service line to request a free lead test and ask when their full inventory will be public
• Hire a plumber to inspect the service line where it enters your home if you want faster answers
• Check your home's age — homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead lines
• Learn more from the CDC's guidance on lead in drinking water and your pediatrician if you have young children

```json [ { "q": "Does CTWC - NORTHERN REG-WESTERN SYSTEM have lead in the water?", "a": "The utility serves over 101,000 people but hasn't yet published a complete lead service line inventory. Lead risk depends on your individual home's pipes, not just the main distribution system. Contact the utility to request a free lead test of your tap water." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "A plumber can inspect the pipe where the main line enters your home. You can also contact CTWC - NORTHERN REG-WESTERN SYSTEM with your address—they may have records. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk." }, { "q": "Is it dangerous to drink the water?", "a": "Lead in drinking water is a health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. Testing your tap water is the best way to know your actual exposure. The CDC and your pediatrician can advise you on reducing risk." }, { "q": "When will the lead service line inventory be public?",