NEW IBERIA WATER SYSTEM (LAWCO) Lead Service Line Inventory
New Iberia Water System (LAWCO) serves approximately 59,928 residents in Louisiana. Like all US public water systems, it is required by federal law to identify and report lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to your home.
What we know right now
New Iberia Water System draws from groundwater sources. As of this page's last update, the utility has not yet completed or publicly released a lead service line inventory. This does not mean there are no lead lines in the system; it means the count and locations are still being documented.
Federal rules require all water systems to finish these inventories by October 2024. Utilities that miss this deadline must notify customers of the delay.
Why this matters for your home
Lead service lines are the single largest source of lead in tap water for most American homes. If your home was built before 1986 (when lead pipes were commonly used), there's a meaningful chance your service line contains lead. The only way to know for certain is through testing or a visual inspection by a plumber.
Lead exposure carries real health risks, especially for young children and pregnant people. Even at low levels, it can affect learning and development. A pediatrician or your state health department can advise on testing.
What you can do now
Contact your water utility directly to ask:
- Does your specific address have a lead service line?
- When will the full inventory be available?
- Do they offer free or reduced-cost testing or replacement programs?
Have your water tested. A home water test is inexpensive (usually $20–50) and tells you what's actually in your tap water. Your utility or local health department can recommend a certified lab.
Reduce exposure while you wait. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (if your pipes haven't been used for several hours). Use cold water for cooking and drinking—hot water leaches more lead from pipes.
Next steps for residents
- Call New Iberia Water System and ask about lead service line status at your address
- Get your water tested through a certified lab
- Ask the utility about free/subsidized replacement programs if you have a lead line
- Talk to your doctor if you have young children in the home
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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 I have a lead service line?
Your water utility can tell you based on your address. You can also have a plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home—lead is soft, dark gray, and leaves a mark if scratched. Water testing shows if lead is in your tap water, which is not the same as having a lead line, but it's useful information either way.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Yes. Lead is particularly harmful to young children's brain development, even at low levels. Talk to your pediatrician about testing and prevention steps. The CDC has detailed guidance on lead and children's health.
When will New Iberia Water System finish its lead line inventory?
Federal law requires completion by October 2024. Contact the utility directly to ask for an update and your home's status—they may have preliminary results available even if the full report isn't public yet.
Can I replace my lead service line myself?
Lead line replacement requires permits and licensed work in most areas. Contact your water utility—many now offer free or subsidized replacement programs, especially if you qualify based on income. Your city or county health department can also point you to local resources.