SMYRNA WATER DEPARTMENT Lead Service Line Inventory
About Smyrna Water Department
Smyrna Water Department serves approximately 11,813 residents in Delaware. The system draws from groundwater sources and is required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the public water main to individual homes.
What we know about lead service lines in Smyrna
The utility has not yet completed or published a public inventory of lead service lines. This means:
- No data is currently available on how many lead service lines exist in the Smyrna system, if any.
- The utility may still be in the early stages of identifying and cataloging these lines, which is a legal requirement under the Lead and Copper Rule.
- Without a published inventory, you cannot check whether your specific address has a lead service line from this public source.
What this means for your home
If your home was built before 1980, there's a higher statistical chance your service line contains lead or lead-containing materials. Homes built in the 1980s and 1990s may also have galvanized steel service lines, which can leach lead over time.
You have options to learn your home's status:
- Contact Smyrna Water Department directly and ask about your specific service line. They may have internal records even if a public inventory isn't published yet.
- Request a water test through the utility or a certified lab. Testing can detect lead levels in your tap water.
- Hire a licensed plumber to inspect your service line visually if it's accessible on your property.
Next steps for residents
- Call Smyrna Water Department and ask: "Do I have a lead service line?" Share your address.
- If the answer is yes or unknown, request information on available testing programs or rebates for replacement.
- Visit the CDC's guide to lead in drinking water for health information and testing details.
- If you have young children or are pregnant, consult your pediatrician or OB-GYN about lead exposure risks.
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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?
Contact your water utility with your address—they have records of what's underground. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the exposed part of your service line (usually near the curb or meter), or request a water test to check lead levels in your tap.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Lead exposure can affect brain development in young children. Talk to your pediatrician about testing and protective steps. The CDC has detailed guidance on lead and children's health.
Can I replace my lead service line myself?
No. Service line replacement requires licensed plumbers and coordination with your water utility to disconnect and reconnect at the main. Your utility can direct you to approved contractors and may offer cost-sharing programs.
Why doesn't my water utility have a public lead inventory yet?
Utilities have until specific deadlines to complete inventories under federal law. Smyrna may still be in progress, or they may have the data but not published it online yet. Ask them directly for an update.