CITY OF WESTMINSTER Lead Service Line Inventory

About Your Water System

The City of Westminster, Maryland serves approximately 35,256 people. The utility draws water from surface sources.

As of now, the city has not yet inventoried its lead service lines. This means the utility hasn't published a count of how many homes are connected to lead pipes, or what percentage of the system has them.

Why This Matters

Lead service lines are pipes that connect your home's water meter to the main water line under the street. If you have one, lead can leach into your drinking water—especially in homes with corrosive water or if pipes are old and deteriorating.

The EPA requires all US water systems to map their lead service lines and share results with the public by specific deadlines (extended timelines apply depending on system size and resources). This is not optional; it's part of the Lead and Copper Rule.

What Westminster's Status Means

Westminster has not yet released an inventory to the public. This could mean:

• The utility is still conducting the survey.
• Results are being verified before publication.
• The utility is requesting additional time or funding.

Either way, you have a right to know. If you're concerned about lead in your home, you don't have to wait for an official inventory to take action.

What You Can Do Now

Contact the City of Westminster water utility directly. Ask:

• Do you have a lead service line inventory? If not, when will it be available?
• Does my address have a known lead line or galvanized pipe (which can also leach lead)?
• What's the hardness and pH of the water in my area? (Corrosive water increases lead risk.)
• What corrosion control treatment is in place?

If you have young children or are pregnant, the CDC recommends limiting exposure. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if your pipes are old. A water test (around $20–$40 from a certified lab) can tell you whether lead is present in your water right now.

Consider a water filter certified for lead reduction (NSF/ANSI 53 or 58) as a temporary measure while you wait for the inventory or pursue pipe replacement.

Next Steps for Residents

• Contact the City of Westminster water department to ask about the status of their lead service line inventory.
• Request information about whether your specific address has a known lead line or galvanized pipe.
• If concerned about lead levels, request a free or subsidized water test through your utility or a certified lab.
• For health questions, talk to your pediatrician or call the CDC's lead hotline.

```json [ { "q": "Does the City of Westminster have lead in the water?", "a": "Westminster has not yet published a lead service line inventory, so the exact number of lead pipes is unknown. Lead in drinking water comes from corroded pipes, not the source water itself. A simple water test can tell you if lead is present in your home." }, { "q": "How do I know if I have a lead service line?", "a": "You can contact the City of Westminster water department with your address to ask. They may have records showing pipe material. Alternatively, a plumber can inspect the pipe running from your meter to the street, or you can have your water tested for lead." }, { "q": "What should I do if I'm worried about lead?", "a": "Request a water test through a certified lab, run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking if your home is old, and consider an NSF/ANSI 53-certified water filter. If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about next steps." }, { "q": "When will Westminster's lead inventory be published?", "a": "The utility has not announced a public deadline. Contact them directly to ask when results will be available—they're required to provide