ATHENS-CLARKE CO WATER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
What you need to know
ATHENS-CLARKE CO WATER SYSTEM serves about 125,000 people in Georgia. The utility draws water from surface sources (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Current inventory status: Not yet completed. The water system has not yet finished cataloging which service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to individual homes—contain lead. This is a snapshot of where things stand right now. Federal law requires water systems to complete these inventories, and many are still working through this process.
Why lead in service lines matters
Lead is a serious health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. It can leach into drinking water from old lead pipes, even at low levels. Because lead service lines are often underground and owned partly by the utility and partly by the property owner, inventory and replacement can be complicated.
What should happen next
Water systems are required to develop a plan for replacing lead service lines. Once ATHENS-CLARKE CO WATER SYSTEM completes its inventory, it will need to:
- Identify all confirmed lead service lines in its system
- Create a timeline for replacement or treatment to reduce lead levels
- Fund this work (often through grants, bonds, or customer rates)
- Communicate findings and replacement options to residents
Replacement typically takes years or decades, depending on the number of lines and available funding. In the meantime, the utility may recommend flushing or provide water testing kits.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about the status of their lead service line inventory and whether your address has been assessed
- Request a free water test to check your home's lead levels—most utilities offer this
- Check if you qualify for assistance through local or state programs that help with lead line replacement costs
- Visit the EPA's guidance on lead in drinking water for interim steps to reduce exposure (flushing, point-of-use filters)
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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
Does my house have a lead service line?
You can contact ATHENS-CLARKE CO WATER SYSTEM directly to ask if your address is on their lead service line inventory. They may also have records of when your home was built or what materials were used. If you're unsure, a water test can detect lead levels in your tap water.
Is it safe to drink tap water right now?
The safest way to know is to get your water tested—ask your utility for a free test kit. In the meantime, flushing your pipes (running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking) and using a pitcher filter certified to remove lead can help reduce exposure.
Who pays to replace a lead service line?
Usually both the utility and the homeowner share costs, but this varies. Some utilities cover 100% of replacement; others require homeowners to pay part. Contact ATHENS-CLARKE CO WATER SYSTEM to learn their policy and whether grants or payment plans are available.
How long will it take to replace all the lead lines?
That depends on how many lines exist, available funding, and the utility's plan. Once ATHENS-CLARKE CO WATER SYSTEM completes its inventory, they must publish a timeline. Systemwide replacement often takes 10–30 years.