Lead Service Line Inventory: LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS
LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS serves about 7,850 people in Illinois. Like all US water systems, it is required by the EPA to inventory lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to homes and buildings.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is the pipe that carries water from the public main into your home. Many were installed before 1986, when lead was still legal in plumbing materials. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water sits in the pipes overnight or if the water is corrosive.
What does LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS currently know?
As of now, LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS has not yet completed a full inventory of its lead service lines. This means they are still in the process of identifying which homes and buildings are connected by lead pipes. Completing an inventory takes time—utilities must check records, visit properties, and test pipes.
Why should you care?
If your home is served by a lead service line, your drinking water may contain lead. Lead exposure has no safe level, particularly for children and pregnant people. Even if you have a lead service line, the risk can be reduced through simple steps like flushing your tap and using filters.
If you're concerned about lead in your water, contact your utility directly. They can tell you:
- Whether your address is on a lead service line
- What filtration or replacement options are available
- Whether they've received funding for service line replacement
Finding your water system's information
You can request your service line status from LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS by phone or in person. Many utilities now have online portals or maps showing which lines have been identified as lead, galvanized, or safe. Ask whether they can tell you the material of your specific service line.
Next steps for residents
- Contact the utility: Call or visit LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS to ask about your service line status and any testing or replacement programs.
- Test your water: A simple water test can detect lead; home test kits are available at hardware stores.
- Learn reduction steps: If you have a lead service line, the CDC recommends flushing taps and using filters until replacement is possible.
- Check for replacement funding: Ask if your utility has received grants to replace lead service lines and whether your property qualifies.
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 house has a lead service line?
Contact LONG CREEK TOWNSHIP PWS directly—they maintain records of service line materials for each address. You can also have a plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home, though this may require digging.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Yes. Lead can harm brain development in children and cause other health problems at any age. There is no safe level. For detailed health guidance, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
What can I do if I have a lead service line?
You can use a pitcher or faucet filter certified to reduce lead, flush your tap before drinking, or replace the line entirely. Full replacement is the only permanent solution—ask your utility about replacement programs or cost-sharing.
Why hasn't my water system finished its inventory yet?
Inventories require utilities to review decades of records, visit thousands of properties, and sometimes excavate pipes to verify material. It's a multi-year effort for larger systems.