Lead Service Line Inventory: NICHOLASVILLE WATER DEPARTMENT
Nicholasville Water Department serves approximately 35,266 people in Kentucky. Like all US water systems, it is required by federal law to identify and inventory lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line underground.
What we know about Nicholasville's lead service lines
Nicholasville Water Department has not yet completed or published a lead service line inventory. This means the utility has not yet publicly shared data on how many lead pipes may exist in its system, or a timeline for replacing them.
This is not unusual. Many water systems across the country are still in early stages of lead pipe mapping. Federal rules require utilities to complete their inventories, but timelines vary by state and funding availability.
Why this matters for your home
If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance it has a lead service line. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if water sits in pipes overnight or if your water is acidic. The CDC notes that lead exposure is a health concern for young children and pregnant people.
The only way to know if your home specifically has a lead service line is to: 1. Ask your water utility directly — Nicholasville Water Department can often tell you based on your address and service records 2. Have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home (usually in the basement or crawl space) 3. Get your water tested through your local health department or a certified lab
What Nicholasville should do next
Federal law requires the utility to complete its lead service line inventory and share the results with the public. You have the right to know:
- How many lead service lines are in the system
- Whether your property may have one
- Plans and timelines for replacement
- Funding sources for replacement work
If the utility hasn't published this information yet, it's worth asking when they plan to do so.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Nicholasville Water Department directly to ask if your address has a lead service line on record
- Request a water test through the utility or your county health department if you're concerned
- If you have young children, consult your pediatrician about lead exposure risks and testing recommendations
- Check back here for updates as the utility completes its inventory
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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
How do I know if my house in Nicholasville has a lead service line?
Contact Nicholasville Water Department with your address—they should have records of your service line material. You can also have a licensed plumber inspect where the line enters your home, or get a water test done through your local health department.
Is it safe to drink tap water if there's a lead service line?
Lead can leach into water, but risk varies based on water pH, age of pipes, and water chemistry. Running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking can help flush the line. Contact your utility or the CDC for guidance on testing and temporary precautions.
Who pays to replace lead service lines in Kentucky?
It depends on the utility and available funding. Federal Infrastructure Bill money is now available to states for lead line replacement, but funding and responsibility vary by location. Ask Nicholasville Water Department about any replacement programs or cost-sharing they offer.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my water?
Have your water tested by a certified lab or through your local health department. If you have young children or a pregnant household member, talk to your doctor. In the meantime, use cold tap water for drinking and cooking, as hot water dissolves lead more easily.