Lead Service Lines in Carrollton Township, Michigan
Carrollton Township serves about 6,100 residents. Like many Michigan water systems, the township is required by state and federal law to identify and track lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line.
What we know about Carrollton Township's lead service lines
The township has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the exact number of homes with lead pipes is currently unknown. An inventory is the first step toward understanding the scope of the problem and planning replacements.
The township sources water from surface water (lakes or rivers), which is then treated before delivery to homes.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. Even new water treatment cannot prevent lead from leaching into your home once it enters the pipe on your property. Families with young children should be especially careful—lead exposure can affect brain development.
You cannot see, taste, or smell lead in water. Testing is the only way to know if your water contains it.
What you can do now
Contact your water utility. Call or email Carrollton Township to ask:
- Whether your street has been inventoried yet
- If your specific address is known to have a lead service line
- What the timeline is for completing the full inventory
- Whether any replacement programs or financial assistance exist
Get your water tested. A simple test from a certified lab costs $15–50 and takes a few days. Your utility can refer you to approved labs in the area. Even if your line is not lead, testing confirms what's actually in your water.
Consider a filter in the meantime. NSF-certified filters that remove lead are available for faucets or pitchers. Boiling water does not remove lead—in fact, it can concentrate it.
Talk to your pediatrician if you have young children. They can discuss whether blood lead testing makes sense for your family.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Carrollton Township water department to ask about lead service line status at your address
- Order a water test from a state-certified lab
- If you have young children, mention your water concerns at your next pediatric visit
- Visit the EPA's water testing guide for official information and resources
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 my house has a lead service line?
Contact your water utility—they are mapping all lead lines in the system. You can also look at the pipe entering your home from the street; lead is soft, gray, and leaves a mark if you scratch it with a coin. A water test will reveal if lead is actually in your drinking water.
Is the water in Carrollton Township safe to drink?
The township treats its water, but treatment alone cannot stop lead from leaching out of lead service lines once water enters the pipe on your property. A water test is the only way to know what's in your specific tap. If you are concerned, contact the utility or get a test done.
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
Use bottled water for drinking and cooking until you can replace the service line or install a certified lead-removal filter. Contact your water utility about replacement assistance programs. If you have young children, ask your pediatrician whether blood lead testing is appropriate.
Does boiling water remove lead?
No. Boiling actually concentrates lead by removing other water. Use bottled water, or install an NSF-certified filter designed to remove lead.