Lead Service Lines in Chicago
Chicago serves nearly 2.8 million people. Like many older cities in the US, some Chicago homes still have lead service lines—the pipes connecting your home to the public water main.
What you need to know
A lead service line is a pipe made partly or entirely of lead. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a chance you have one. Lead can leach into your water, especially if the water is corrosive or if pipes sit unused for hours.
The good news: lead in water is preventable. Flushing your tap, using a filter, or replacing the line all work. The EPA and CDC say even small amounts of lead exposure matter, especially for young children and pregnant people.
Chicago's inventory status
Chicago has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in the city. This means the utility does not yet have a comprehensive count of how many homes are affected. Without this data, it's harder for residents to know their risk.
The city is required under the Lead and Copper Rule to develop and maintain this inventory. Check back with the utility or the state for updates on when this work will be finished.
What to do now
Get your water tested. Contact the Chicago Department of Water Management (call 311 or visit their website) to ask about free or low-cost water testing. They can tell you if lead is present in your water.
Find out if you have a lead service line. Ask your water utility directly, or check your property records. Many older properties in Chicago do have them.
Use a filter or flush if needed. While you wait for inventory results or replacement, an NSF-certified filter designed for lead can reduce levels. Flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking also helps (especially if water hasn't run for 6+ hours).
Talk to a pediatrician if you have young children. They can advise on testing and next steps based on your family's risk.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Chicago Department of Water Management (call 311) to request a water test and ask about your service line type.
- Check if your home is on the utility's lead service line replacement program waiting list.
- If you have young children, speak with your pediatrician about lead exposure risk in your home.
- Install an NSF-certified lead filter on your tap water if testing shows lead is present.
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 I have a lead service line in Chicago?
Call the Chicago Department of Water Management at 311 or visit their website to ask directly. You can also check your property deed or contact a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home. Homes built before the 1980s are more likely to have lead service lines.
Is Chicago water safe to drink?
Chicago treats its water and monitors it for lead. However, the source of lead is usually the service line or pipes in your home, not the utility's water supply. A free or low-cost water test from the city will tell you if lead is in your tap water.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line in Chicago?
Replacement costs vary based on your property layout and contractor. Contact the Chicago Department of Water Management or a licensed plumber for a quote. Some residents may qualify for assistance programs—ask the utility about options.
Can I use a water filter to remove lead?
Yes. Look for a filter certified by NSF International for lead reduction. Pitcher filters, faucet-mounted filters, and whole-home systems are available at different price points. Check the certification label to confirm it removes lead before you buy.