NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS Lead Service Line Inventory

NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS serves 334,903 people in Louisiana. Like all U.S. water systems, it is required to identify and track lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes.

What you need to know

Lead service lines are a real concern, but they're also manageable. Water flowing through lead pipes can pick up lead, especially in older homes or if water sits in pipes overnight. The good news: if you know you have a lead line, there are proven steps to reduce exposure.

This utility has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its distribution area. This is common—many systems nationwide are still working through this process, which can take years depending on the size of the service area. The utility is required by federal law to complete this work and make the information public.

What happens next

The EPA requires all water systems to:

• Identify which homes have lead service lines
• Share findings with customers
• Develop a plan to replace old lead lines
• Keep the inventory updated

Since NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS has not yet published a completed inventory or replacement plan, homeowners who are concerned about lead should contact the utility directly to ask about their specific address and the timeline for completing this work.

If you think you have a lead line

You don't need to panic while waiting for official results. You can:

• Call the utility to ask if your address has been tested or if records show your service line material
• Flush your water before drinking or cooking with it (run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes)
• Use cold water for drinking and cooking—hot water leaches more lead from pipes
• Have your water tested through a certified lab if you're concerned about current exposure

For guidance on health risks, especially for children under 6, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.

Next steps for residents

• Contact NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS directly to ask about lead service line status at your address and the utility's inventory timeline
• Request a copy of the utility's lead service line inventory and replacement plan once available
• If you have young children or are pregnant, discuss water safety with your doctor
• Consider a point-of-use filter (NSF-certified for lead) while you wait for official results

Does my home have a lead service line?

NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS has not yet completed a public inventory, so check directly with the utility by calling or visiting their office with your address. Many older homes built before the 1980s are more likely to have lead lines, but the only way to know for sure is through official testing or records.

Is lead in drinking water dangerous?

Lead exposure carries real health risks, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. Talk to your pediatrician or doctor about your specific situation. The CDC provides detailed guidance on health effects and safe water practices.

What can I do right now if I'm worried?

Run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking, use cold water for drinking, and consider a NSF-certified lead filter. You can also have your water tested by a certified lab independently of the utility.

When will the utility finish its lead service line inventory?

No timeline has been published yet. Contact NEW ORLEANS CARROLLTON WATER WORKS directly to ask when they expect to complete and release their lead service line inventory and replacement plan.