NEWARK WATER DEPARTMENT Lead Service Line Inventory
Newark Water Department serves about 40,000 people in Delaware. Like many older water systems, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water distribution network. Lead service lines can release lead into drinking water, especially in homes with corrosion control issues or older plumbing.
What we know about Newark's lead service lines
The Newark Water Department has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the utility is still in the process of identifying which homes may have lead pipes connecting them to the main water line.
Without a completed inventory, we don't have specific numbers on how many lead service lines exist in Newark's service area. The utility is required by federal law to complete this work and share results with the public, but timelines vary by system.
What you can do now
Contact your water utility directly. Call Newark Water Department or visit their website to ask:
- Whether your address has a known lead service line
- What testing or replacement programs are available
- When the inventory will be complete
- Whether your home has corrosion control treatment (this reduces lead risk even if you have a lead line)
Test your water if you're concerned. You can request a free or low-cost lead test through your utility or a local health department lab. A test takes a few weeks to get results and costs $10–50 if not free.
Use a certified filter as a temporary measure. If you're waiting for inventory results or replacement, NSF-certified filters that reduce lead are available at hardware stores ($20–100). Change them as directed—usually every 2–6 months.
Know your building's age. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead service lines. If your home is older and you haven't had your water tested, that's a good reason to do so.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Newark Water Department to ask if your address has a documented lead service line
- Request a free or paid water test for lead through your utility or local health department
- If you have young children or are pregnant, ask your pediatrician or doctor about lead testing
- Learn about available replacement or treatment programs in your area
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 Newark Water Department directly—they have records showing which homes have known lead lines. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home; lead is soft and dull gray, while copper is shiny and reddish. A water test will tell you if lead is actually in your drinking water.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead in drinking water is a health concern, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. The CDC and EPA recommend testing if you're in a high-risk group. For specific health guidance, talk to your doctor or call your state health department.
What should I do if I think I have lead in my water?
Request a water test through Newark Water Department or your local health department lab. If results show lead, run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, use filtered water for drinking and cooking, and contact your utility about next steps like treatment or line replacement.
Does boiling water remove lead?
No. Boiling actually concentrates lead because it evaporates water but not the lead. Use a certified filter, drink bottled water, or run cold water from the tap before use if you're concerned about lead.