LEWES BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS Lead Service Line Inventory
About this water system
Lewes Board of Public Works serves approximately 9,627 people in Delaware. The system draws from groundwater sources.
What we know about lead service lines here
Lewes Board of Public Works has not yet completed a lead service line inventory—the count of how many pipes carrying water to homes contain lead. This is not uncommon; many smaller water systems across the US are still in the early stages of mapping their lead lines.
Without a completed inventory, we don't have specific numbers on how many lead, galvanized, or non-lead service lines exist in this system.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. A lead service line means the pipe connecting your home to the water main may leach lead into your water—especially if water sits in pipes overnight or if your water is acidic.
Knowing whether your home has a lead service line is the first step to protecting your family. Many utilities, including Lewes, are working to identify these pipes and plan replacements, but the process takes time.
What you can do now
Contact your water utility directly. Call or email Lewes Board of Public Works and ask:
- Does my address have a lead service line?
- When will the inventory be completed?
- Are there any water quality tests available for my address?
Even without a completed inventory, the utility may have records on individual properties.
Test your water if you're concerned. A simple lead test costs $20–40 at most hardware stores or through your county health department. This tells you whether lead is actually present in your water right now, regardless of pipe type.
Use a filter if testing shows lead. NSF-certified filters labeled for lead reduction can reduce levels while you wait for long-term fixes. Replace filters as directed.
Check with your pediatrician if you have young children. Lead exposure risks are highest for kids under 6. A doctor can advise on testing and next steps.
Next steps for residents
- Call Lewes Board of Public Works and ask about your address's service line status and the timeline for their inventory.
- Request a water test through your utility or local health department if you want to know your current lead levels.
- Install a certified lead filter on your tap while waiting for inventory results or line replacement.
- Talk to your child's doctor if you have concerns about lead exposure.
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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 in Lewes Delaware?
Contact Lewes Board of Public Works directly—they may have records for your address even if the full inventory isn't complete. You can also ask a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home; lead pipes are soft and gray, and a magnet won't stick to them.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Lewes if I don't know about lead lines?
The best way to know is to test your water; a simple lead test costs $20–40. If testing shows lead is present, use an NSF-certified filter while waiting for long-term fixes like line replacement.
When will Lewes finish its lead service line inventory?
Contact Lewes Board of Public Works for their timeline. Many utilities are required by federal rules to complete inventories by specific deadlines, but timelines vary.
What do I do if my child has been drinking water with lead in it?
Call your pediatrician right away—they can advise on testing and next steps. The CDC also has guidance on lead exposure in children on their website.