SPRINGFIELD Lead Service Line Inventory
Springfield serves 117,444 people in Illinois. Like most U.S. water systems, it relies on a mix of pipes to deliver water—some old, some new, and some made of materials that can leach lead into your tap water.
What you need to know
Lead service lines are pipes that connect the water main (buried under the street) to your home. If your line is made of lead, water sitting in it overnight or between uses can pick up lead particles and dissolved lead. The EPA and CDC agree there is no safe level of lead in drinking water, especially for children and pregnant people.
Springfield's current status: The water utility has not yet completed a full inventory of service line materials in the system. This is typical—many water systems across the country are still working through this process. Until the inventory is complete, you won't know from public records alone whether your home has a lead service line.
What that means for your home
Your house could have:
- A lead service line (installed before the 1986 ban on lead pipes)
- A galvanized or other metal line (can also release lead over time)
- A non-lead line (copper, plastic, or concrete)
Without a completed inventory, you won't find your property listed in Springfield's records yet. That doesn't mean your water is unsafe—it means the utility hasn't cataloged your line type officially.
What you can do now
Get your water tested. This is the most direct way to know if lead is present in your tap water. Contact Springfield to request a free or low-cost test, or use a certified private lab (cost typically $20–$50).
Check your home's age and condition. If your home was built before 1986, a lead service line is more likely. Old, corroded pipes or discolored water can also be signs.
Contact the utility. Ask Springfield:
- When they expect to complete the full service line inventory
- Whether they have records for your specific address
- What water testing options are available to you
Next steps for residents
- Call or visit Springfield's water department website to request a free lead test for your tap water
- Ask if your address has been surveyed as part of the inventory project
- If you have young children or pregnant household members, prioritize testing—don't wait for the inventory to be finished
- Keep the faucet off for a few minutes before using water for drinking or cooking if you haven't used it overnight
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Springfield have lead service lines?
Springfield has not yet completed a full inventory of its service lines, so the exact count is unknown. Many homes built before 1986 may have lead lines, but the only way to know yours is to ask the utility or have your water tested.
Is Springfield tap water safe to drink?
Springfield treats its water to meet federal safety standards, but lead service lines can still add lead at the point where water enters your home. The best way to know if lead is in your water is to get it tested.
How do I know if my house has a lead pipe?
A lead service line is usually buried underground, so you can't see it. Ask Springfield if they have records for your address, or hire a plumber to inspect or test your pipes. You can also test your tap water, which is often easier and less expensive.
What should I do if my water tests high for lead?
Contact Springfield about replacement options or rebates for your service line. In the meantime, use bottled water for drinking and cooking, flush the line before use, and contact a pediatrician if children in your home have been exposed.