Lead Service Lines in Detroit
Detroit serves 633,218 people. Like many older U.S. cities, Detroit likely has lead service lines—pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street to homes built before the 1980s. If your home was built before 1990 and you've never had your service line replaced, there's a reasonable chance yours is made of lead or galvanized steel (which can corrode and release lead).
What you need to know
Lead in drinking water is a real concern, especially for children under 6 and pregnant people. Even low levels can affect development. But you have options: testing, filtration, and line replacement can all help.
Detroit's inventory status: The City of Detroit has not yet completed a public inventory of lead service lines in the water system. This means the exact number of lines that need attention is unknown. Utilities across the country are required by federal law to identify lead service lines and share that information with customers by October 2024 and beyond, so this information should become available.
What this means for you: The absence of a completed inventory doesn't mean your water is unsafe right now. It means the city is still in the process of identifying which lines exist. You don't have to wait for the city's results to take action.
What residents can do now
- Contact Detroit Water and Sewerage Department to ask about your home's service line material. They may have records based on age and construction history.
- Get your water tested for lead through your local health department or a certified lab. Testing costs $20–100 and answers the most important question: is lead actually in your water?
- Use a certified filter if testing shows lead is present. NSF-certified filters (look for "NSF 53" on the package) reduce lead effectively.
- Consider replacement if testing confirms a lead line and you're planning home renovations. The city may have funding or assistance programs available.
Lead service line replacement is a long-term solution but not an emergency if your water tests safe or if you're using a filter.
Next steps for residents
- Call Detroit Water and Sewerage Department to learn about your line's material.
- Test your tap water for lead through a certified lab.
- If lead is found, use a certified filter or discuss replacement options with the city.
- Check back on the city's inventory progress—it's a required public record you can request.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Detroit have lead in the water?
Lead in drinking water depends on your service line and pipes, not the city's main water supply. If your home has a lead or galvanized service line, lead can leach into your water. Test your tap water to know for sure.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call Detroit Water and Sewerage Department with your address—they may have records. You can also look at your water bill or property records. Homes built before 1980 are more likely to have lead lines.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement typically costs $3,000–15,000 depending on depth and conditions. Detroit may offer assistance or cost-sharing programs; contact the city to ask about current options.
Can I filter out lead?
Yes. Use a pitcher, faucet, or under-sink filter certified NSF 53 for lead removal. These cost $30–300 and work immediately while you plan longer-term solutions like line replacement.