Lead Service Lines in Des Plaines, Illinois
Des Plaines Water Department serves about 60,675 people. Like many older water systems in the Midwest, Des Plaines may have lead service lines—the underground pipes that connect the public water main to homes built before the 1980s.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is the pipe carrying water from the street into your home. Lead was legal in plumbing until 1986 and was widely used because it's easy to work with and doesn't corrode quickly. Today, the EPA considers lead service lines a significant source of lead in drinking water, especially in homes built before the mid-1980s.
What does Des Plaines know about lead lines?
Des Plaines has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its service area. This is common—many utilities across the country are still in the early stages of mapping their pipes. Without a completed inventory, residents and the utility don't yet have a clear picture of where lead lines are most likely.
The utility is required by federal law (the Lead and Copper Rule, updated in 2021) to develop and publish an inventory by October 2024. Check back with Des Plaines directly or on LeadPipeLookup for updates when that inventory becomes available.
What should you do now?
Even without a complete inventory, you can take practical steps:
- Know your home's age. If your house was built before 1980, a lead service line is more likely. Homes built in the 1980s or later are less likely to have one, but it's still possible.
- Get your water tested. A simple lead test costs $20–50 and gives you real data about what's in your tap water. Contact Des Plaines for a test kit or recommended labs.
- Check for lead solder and fixtures. Even if your service line isn't lead, old brass faucets and solder joints can leach lead. These are easier and cheaper to replace than service lines.
- Use a certified filter if needed. NSF/ANSI 53–certified filters reduce lead at the tap while you plan longer-term fixes.
Funding for replacement
Check with Des Plaines about whether they've received funding or developed a replacement plan. Federal grants and low-interest loans are becoming available to help utilities and homeowners replace lead lines—ask your water department what programs you may qualify for.
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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 Des Plaines have lead in the water?
Des Plaines hasn't released a complete lead service line inventory yet, so it's not clear how many lead lines exist in the system. A water test from your tap will tell you if lead is present in your home specifically. Contact Des Plaines Water Department to request a test kit.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Homes built before 1980 are more likely to have lead lines. You can call Des Plaines with your address once they finish their inventory, or hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home. A magnet won't stick to lead, but a test scrape is the most reliable way.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Lead exposure can affect children's brain development and learning. If you're concerned about your child's health, talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC for guidance. A water test is the first step to understand your actual exposure.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement typically costs $3,000–15,000 depending on line length and soil conditions. Some states and utilities offer grants or rebates. Ask Des Plaines if they have a replacement program or can recommend funding options.