BEVERLY WATER DEPT Lead Service Line Inventory

Beverly Water Department serves 47,461 people in Massachusetts. Like many older water systems across the US, Beverly may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to your home.

What we know about Beverly's lead pipes

As of now, Beverly Water Department has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the utility is still in the process of identifying which homes are served by lead pipes and which are not.

The lack of a completed inventory is common; federal law only recently required all water systems to map their lead service lines by October 2024. Many utilities are still working through this process.

Why this matters for your home

If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead. Lead pipes pose the biggest risk when water is corrosive—which depends on water chemistry, temperature, and how long water sits in the pipe. Even if you have a lead service line, using cold water and letting it run briefly before drinking can reduce your exposure.

The only way to know for certain is to have your water tested or your service line identified by the utility.

What Beverly Water Department is doing

Once Beverly completes its inventory, the utility will be required to notify customers about lead in their service lines and develop a replacement plan. In the meantime, you can take steps to protect your family now.

Next steps for residents

• Contact Beverly Water Department to ask about your service line status and request a test of your water for lead.
• Use cold water for drinking and cooking. Run the tap for 30 seconds before filling a glass if water has been sitting overnight.
• If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or doctor about testing your child's blood lead level.
• Check the CDC's guidance on reducing lead exposure at home while you wait for inventory results.

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Does Beverly Water Department have lead service lines?

Beverly is still completing its lead service line inventory, so a full picture isn't available yet. Federal law requires this inventory to be finished by October 2024. Contact the utility directly to learn about your specific address.

How do I know if my house has a lead service line?

The most reliable way is to contact Beverly Water Department and ask them to identify your service line. You can also request a free or low-cost water test from the utility, or hire a certified plumber to visually inspect the pipe where it enters your home.

Is it dangerous to drink water from a lead service line?

Lead in drinking water is a real health concern, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. The risk depends on the water's corrosivity, how long it sits in the pipe, and other factors. Talk to your doctor or the CDC for guidance on your situation.

What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my water right now?

Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking, and run the water for 30 seconds if it has been sitting overnight. Ask Beverly Water Department to test your water and to tell you about your service line. If you have young children, discuss blood lead testing with your pediatrician.