MARSHALLTOWN WATER WORKS Lead Service Line Inventory
Marshalltown Water Works serves approximately 27,591 people in Iowa. Like all US water utilities, it is required by federal law to identify and report on lead service lines—the pipes that may connect your home to the public water main.
What you need to know
Lead service lines are a real concern. Water flowing through lead pipes can pick up lead, which is a neurotoxin. There is no safe level of lead in drinking water, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. If your home was built before 1986, there's a meaningful chance your service line contains lead or lead-bearing materials.
Marshalltown Water Works' inventory status. As of our last update, this utility has not yet completed a full lead service line inventory. This doesn't mean your water is unsafe—it means the full picture of how many lead lines exist in the system is still being developed. Many utilities across the country are still in the early stages of this work.
What happens next
Water utilities are required to complete lead service line inventories by October 2024 (or have a compliance plan in place). Marshalltown Water Works may already be working on this behind the scenes. The best way to find out the current status is to contact the utility directly—they can tell you whether your specific address has a known lead line, and what replacement programs might be available.
Reducing lead exposure right now
Even before your line is replaced, you can take steps to reduce exposure:
- Run cold water before drinking. Let tap water run for 30 seconds to a few minutes if the line has been idle (overnight, several hours).
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking. Hot water leaches lead faster than cold.
- Have your water tested. Marshalltown Water Works can advise you on free or low-cost testing.
- Check if you're eligible for help. Some utilities and state programs fund partial or full replacement of lead service lines for low-income households.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Marshalltown Water Works to ask if your address has a known lead service line and what your replacement options are.
- Request a free or low-cost water test from the utility to know your current lead level.
- Ask about lead service line replacement programs or state/federal funding (including new grants under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law).
- Visit the CDC's lead page if you have health concerns, especially regarding children.
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 home has a lead service line?
Contact Marshalltown Water Works directly—they have records of service line materials for your address. You can also hire a plumber to inspect or test the line, or contact the city for a visual inspection. Many utilities offer free inspection programs.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Yes. Lead can damage the brain and nervous system, especially in young children. There is no safe level. Even low exposure over time can cause problems. Talk to your pediatrician or the CDC if you have health concerns.
Can I remove lead from my tap water myself?
Some filters certified by NSF for lead reduction can help, but they require regular replacement and do not address the source problem. The only permanent solution is replacing the lead service line. Contact Marshalltown Water Works about replacement programs.
Who pays for lead service line replacement?
Responsibility varies by state and utility. Some utilities fund full replacement; others split costs with homeowners. Federal funding is now available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Ask Marshalltown Water Works about your options and any assistance programs.