KEKAHA-WAIMEA Water System Lead Service Lines
What you need to know
KEKAHA-WAIMEA serves about 5,998 people in Hawaii. Like all US water systems, it is required by federal law to identify and eventually replace lead service lines — the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to homes.
The current status: This utility has not yet completed an inventory of its lead service lines. That means we don't have public data on how many lead pipes may exist in the system.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a direct pathway for lead to enter your tap water, especially when water sits in pipes overnight or when the water is corrosive. Even small amounts of lead in drinking water can be a health concern, particularly for young children and pregnant people. The only way to fully remove the risk is to replace the service line.
What should you do now
Contact your utility directly. Kekaha-Waimea is required by the EPA to:
- Complete a service line inventory by October 2024 (or request an extension)
- Share that inventory with customers upon request
- Develop a plan to replace all lead service lines
Ask them: 1. Do you have a copy of the lead service line inventory, or when will it be available? 2. How many lead service lines has the utility identified so far? 3. Is there a replacement schedule or funding program for residential customers?
If your home was built before 1986, the risk of a lead service line is higher. You can also have your water tested for lead by a certified lab — contact your county health department for a referral.
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Next steps for residents
- Call or email KEKAHA-WAIMEA and ask for the lead service line inventory and replacement plan.
- Request a water test through your county health department if you're concerned about lead in your home.
- Check your home's age. Homes built before 1950 are more likely to have lead pipes; those built 1950–1986 have a moderate risk.
- Learn more from the EPA's guide to lead in drinking water.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does KEKAHA-WAIMEA have lead in the water?
KEKAHA-WAIMEA has not yet published a complete inventory of lead service lines. Contact the utility directly to ask if they've identified any lead pipes in the system and request a copy of their inventory when it's available.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
The utility's inventory may identify your address, but you can also ask your water company or a licensed plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home. Lead pipes are soft, gray, and can be marked with an X from a test pen.
Is lead service line water safe to drink?
Lead can leach into water from lead service lines, especially if the water is corrosive or sits in pipes for hours. The CDC recommends flushing taps, using cold water for drinking and cooking, and having your water tested if you're concerned—particularly if you have young children.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement costs vary by location and depth but often range from $3,000 to $25,000 per line. Ask KEKAHA-WAIMEA if they offer cost-sharing programs, grants, or payment plans for residents.