Lead Service Line Inventory for Charter Township of Delta
Charter Township of Delta serves about 21,856 people in Michigan. Like many water systems across the US, the township is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line.
What you need to know
The township has not yet completed a lead service line inventory. As of now, the count of lead, galvanized, or non-lead pipes in the system is unknown.
This doesn't mean there are no lead service lines in Charter Township of Delta. Many older homes built before lead was phased out of plumbing materials may still have them. An incomplete inventory simply reflects that the data collection process is still underway.
All US water systems were required to start this work by October 2021. The township is working to meet federal timelines, though completion dates vary by system size and local resources.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common pathway for lead to enter drinking water at home. Even if your township's water treatment is excellent, lead can leach from old pipes, especially if the water is acidic or has low mineral content.
If you live in a home built before 1980—particularly before 1950—there's a higher chance your service line contains lead or galvanized steel (which can corrode and release lead).
How to find out about your own home
Knowing whether your service line is lead is the first step.
- Contact Charter Township of Delta directly and ask about your property's service line material. They may have records even if the full inventory isn't public yet.
- Hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home (usually in the basement or crawl space). A simple visual inspection can identify lead pipes, which are soft, dull gray, and easy to scratch.
- Have your water tested for lead through a certified lab. Contact your local health department for a list of approved labs.
Next steps for residents
- Call or email Charter Township of Delta water department and ask: "What material is my service line made of?"
- Request an inspection by a licensed plumber if you're unsure about your home's age or pipe condition.
- Test your water for lead if you have a young child, are pregnant, or served by a system with a history of lead issues.
- Keep an eye on the township's website for updates to the lead service line inventory as it becomes available.
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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 home has a lead service line?
Contact Charter Township of Delta with your address—they may have records of your service line material. A licensed plumber can also inspect the line where it enters your home, or you can check permit/inspection records from when your home was built.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Lead exposure is a serious health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. Talk to your pediatrician or call the CDC's lead hotline (1-800-CDC-INFO) for specific health guidance.
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
Use bottled water for drinking and cooking until you can replace your service line or install a certified lead-removal filter. Contact Charter Township of Delta about replacement programs or financial assistance.
Why doesn't the township have a complete inventory yet?
Mapping every service line in a water system is a large undertaking. Most systems are still collecting data and completing inventories on a rolling schedule set by federal deadlines.