Lead Service Lines in Shreveport Water System
Shreveport Water System serves about 192,000 people in Louisiana. Like water systems across the US, it may have lead service lines—pipes that carry water from the main line under the street into homes. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially in homes with older plumbing.
What we know about Shreveport's lead service lines
Shreveport Water System has not yet published a detailed public inventory of which homes have lead service lines. This is common; many utilities are still completing their investigations. The system serves a mix of older and newer neighborhoods, so some lead lines may exist, but the exact number and locations are not yet documented here.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the single largest source of lead in drinking water for most American homes. Even small amounts matter—there's no safe level for children. If your home was built before the 1980s, or if you're in an older neighborhood, there's a higher chance your property has a lead line.
You won't taste, smell, or see lead in water. The only way to know is to have your water tested or to find out whether your home has a lead service line.
What you can do right now
Test your water. Contact Shreveport Water System and ask if they offer free or low-cost lead testing. Many utilities do. You can also buy a test kit online or through a certified lab.
Find out if your home has a lead line. Call Shreveport Water System at their main line or visit their office. Tell them your address and ask whether they have records of your service line material. If records don't exist yet, ask when their inventory will be complete.
Reduce exposure while you investigate. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (especially first thing in the morning). Don't use hot water for drinking or cooking—hot water pulls more lead from pipes. If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about whether blood lead testing makes sense.
Next steps for residents
- Call Shreveport Water System to ask about free lead testing and whether they have records of your service line material.
- Test your water using a certified lab or home test kit if the utility can't provide immediate answers.
- Talk to your pediatrician if you have children under 6 in your home—they can advise on whether blood testing is warranted.
- Ask about replacement programs—some utilities offer grants or payment plans to replace lead lines at no cost to homeowners.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Shreveport Water System have lead service lines?
Shreveport has not yet published a complete public inventory of lead service lines. Many homes in the area may have them, especially those built before the 1980s. Contact the utility directly with your address to ask about your specific property.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call Shreveport Water System and provide your address. They may have records on file. If not, a plumber can inspect your property, or you can request a visual inspection by the utility. Lead pipes are soft, gray, and leave a mark if scratched.
Is Shreveport water safe to drink?
Shreveport Water System treats water to meet federal safety standards, but lead can enter after it leaves the treatment plant if service lines are corroded. Testing your water is the best way to know your actual lead level.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead?
Test your water for free or low cost through the utility or a certified lab. Use cold water for drinking and cooking, and flush the tap for 30 seconds in the morning. If you have young children, discuss blood lead testing with your pediatrician.