Lead Service Lines at University of Central Florida Water System
What you need to know
The University of Central Florida water system serves about 44,103 people in Florida. The utility has not yet published a lead service line inventory—the detailed list of which pipes on your property and theirs contain lead.
This is important: you don't know if your home has a lead service line unless you've had your pipe tested or the utility has surveyed your address. Lead service lines are most common in older homes built before the 1980s, but they exist in newer construction too. The only way to be sure is to check.
Why this matters
Lead is a neurotoxin. Drinking water that flows through a lead service line can carry lead into your home, even if levels are low. Children and pregnant people face the highest risk. The University of Central Florida system has not reported confirmed lead service lines in their inventory, but lack of data does not mean the risk is absent—it means testing and surveying are still underway.
What the utility is doing
The University of Central Florida water system is required by federal law to develop and maintain a lead service line inventory. Many utilities are still in the early stages of this work. You can contact the utility directly to ask about the status of their inventory and whether your address has been surveyed.
What you can do right now
Test your water. The EPA and CDC recommend lead testing, especially if you have young children. Your utility may offer free or low-cost testing kits. A test shows whether lead is present in your drinking water right now—not whether you have a lead service line (those require different inspection methods).
Know your home's age. If your house was built before 1980, the risk of a lead service line is higher. Check your property deed or local assessor records.
Request your utility's inventory status. Ask the University of Central Florida water system when they expect to complete their lead service line survey and whether your address is on the list.
Consider a point-of-use filter. NSF-certified filters rated for lead reduction can reduce exposure while you wait for longer-term solutions.
Next steps for residents
- Contact the University of Central Florida water system to request a water quality report and ask about lead service line testing at your address
- Request a free or subsidized water test through your utility or local health department
- If your home was built before 1980, prioritize testing
- Talk to your pediatrician if you have children; the CDC has resources on lead exposure and health
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 I have a lead service line?
You can't know for certain without inspection. A plumber can visually check your incoming water line, or you can contact your utility and ask if they've surveyed your address. Water testing shows whether lead is in your drinking water right now, but doesn't identify the pipe itself.
Is the University of Central Florida water safe to drink?
The utility monitors water quality and reports results annually. However, even treated water can pick up lead from old pipes on the way to your home. If you're concerned, request a free water test through the utility or local health department.
What should I do if my house was built in the 1970s?
Homes built before the 1980s have a higher chance of lead service lines. Contact your water utility to ask if your address has been surveyed, and consider getting your water tested for lead. A point-of-use filter can reduce exposure while you investigate further.
Does a water filter remove lead?
NSF-certified filters labeled for lead reduction can help, but they're a temporary measure. They require regular replacement and don't address the root cause. For a permanent fix, the lead service line itself must be replaced—talk to your utility about their replacement plan and timeline.