Lead Service Lines in Somerville Water Department

Somerville Water Department, operated by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA), serves about 81,000 people in the Somerville area. If you're concerned about lead in your home's water pipes, this page explains what we know about the water system's lead service line inventory and what you can do next.

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the city's main water line. If it's made of lead, drinking water can pick up lead as it sits in the pipe—even in homes with lead-free plumbing inside.

Lead service lines were common in homes built before the 1980s, especially in older northeastern cities. Lead is a neurotoxin that poses real health risks, particularly to young children and pregnant people.

What does Somerville's inventory show?

The Somerville Water Department has not yet completed a full lead service line inventory. This doesn't mean there are no lead lines—it means the system is still in the process of identifying which properties have them.

Most homes in Somerville were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, when lead pipes were standard. Older neighborhoods are more likely to have lead service lines, but age alone doesn't guarantee it.

How can you find out if you have a lead service line?

The most direct way is to contact Somerville Water Department directly and ask about your property. They may have partial records or can advise you on the next steps.

You can also:

• Check your home's age and neighborhood. Homes built before 1980 in Massachusetts are more likely to have lead lines.
• Request a water test. The EPA recommends testing if you're concerned, especially if you have young children or pregnant household members.
• Look at the pipe. If you can see the service line where it enters your home, a lead pipe is dull gray and soft (you can scratch it with a coin).

Next steps for residents

• Contact Somerville Water Department to ask about your property's service line status and request any available records.
• Test your water if you cannot confirm your service line material. Contact your water utility or a certified lab for testing.
• If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or doctor about lead testing and water safety steps.
• Visit the EPA's lead in drinking water page for guidance on filters and other precautions while you investigate.

Does Somerville have lead service lines?

Somerville is a city with many homes built before lead pipes were phased out. The water department has not completed a full inventory yet, so the exact number is unknown. Contact Somerville Water Department to check your specific property.

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

Call Somerville Water Department and ask about your address. If records aren't available, you can inspect the visible pipe where it enters your home (lead is dull gray and soft) or request a professional inspection.

Is lead in Somerville's tap water dangerous?

Lead in drinking water is a real health concern, especially for young children. If you suspect a lead service line, test your water and contact your pediatrician for guidance on reducing exposure.

When will Somerville replace lead service lines?

Massachusetts requires water systems to identify and replace lead lines, but Somerville's replacement timeline depends on inventory completion and funding. Contact the water department for their current timeline.