DUBUQUE WATER WORKS Lead Service Line Inventory

Dubuque Water Works serves about 59,667 people in Iowa. Like all US water systems, this utility is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—pipes that may carry lead from the water main into homes.

What we know right now

Dubuque Water Works draws its water from groundwater sources. The utility has not yet published a detailed lead service line inventory showing how many lead, galvanized, or unknown pipes exist in the system, or a public replacement plan.

This doesn't mean your water is unsafe. It means the inventory is still being built or reviewed. Many water systems across the country are at this stage—it's a multi-year process to locate and catalog service lines, especially in older neighborhoods where records are incomplete.

How to find your status

Your home's service line material depends on when your house was built and connected to the system. Homes built before the 1980s are more likely to have lead or galvanized steel pipes. The only way to know for sure is to:

• Contact Dubuque Water Works directly and ask about your address
• Request a copy of any available records for your property
• Ask if they offer free testing or inspection programs

Next steps for residents

• Call Dubuque Water Works to ask: (1) what material your service line is made of, and (2) when they expect to publish their full lead inventory
• Get your water tested for lead at the tap—it's inexpensive and gives you a clear answer about what's actually in your drinking water right now
• If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about lead screening. The CDC recommends baseline testing for all children under 6
• Check the utility's website periodically for updates to their inventory or replacement program

Does Dubuque Water Works have lead pipes?

Dubuque Water Works has not yet published a detailed inventory showing how many lead service lines exist in the system. The utility is required by law to complete this inventory. Contact the utility directly for information about your specific address.

How do I know if I have a lead service line?

Call Dubuque Water Works with your address and ask about your service line material. Homes built before the 1980s are at higher risk. You can also request a free or low-cost water test to check for lead at your tap.

Is it safe to drink water from Dubuque?

Dubuque Water Works tests the water leaving the treatment plant and in the distribution system. Lead risk comes from pipes inside your home or connecting your home to the main. The only way to know if lead is entering your home is to test your tap water.

When will Dubuque replace lead service lines?

Dubuque Water Works has not yet published a public replacement plan. Contact the utility to ask about their timeline and whether they offer replacement programs or assistance.