Bloomington Water System: Lead Service Line Inventory
Bloomington serves about 91,300 people and uses surface water as its primary source. Like all US public water systems, Bloomington is required to develop and maintain an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs)—the pipes that connect homes to the water main.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the single largest source of lead in drinking water for most American homes. If your home was built before the 1980s, or if you're not sure what material your service line is made of, there's a real possibility you have one. Lead can leach into your water, especially in homes with acidic water or after water sits in pipes overnight.
What Bloomington has reported
Bloomington has not yet reported completing an inventory of lead service lines. This means the water utility either hasn't finished cataloging which homes have LSLs, or hasn't shared that data publicly. The utility should have this information available—either through historical records, construction permits, or field inspections.
What you can do right now
Contact Bloomington water directly to ask:
- Whether your address has a lead service line on record
- If an inventory exists, and when it will be made public
- Whether free or reduced-cost testing or replacement programs are available
You can also have your water tested for lead. A certified lab test costs $20–50 and tells you what's actually in your water at your tap. This is especially important if you have young children, are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant—lead exposure during these windows carries real health risks.
Reducing lead exposure while you wait
Even if you have a lead service line, you can reduce exposure:
- Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (flushes water sitting in the pipe)
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking; hot water leaches lead faster
- Clean aerators on faucets monthly
- Consider a pitcher or faucet filter certified to remove lead (look for NSF/ANSI 53)
If your water tests high for lead, or if you want more detailed guidance, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Bloomington Water Utility to request information about your service line and ask about lead testing programs
- Get your water tested by a certified laboratory if you have concerns
- Implement temporary measures (flushing, using cold water) while investigating your service line status
- Check with your local health department for resources on lead reduction and testing assistance
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Bloomington water have lead in it?
Bloomington's water source itself is surface water, which is typically treated to remove lead. However, lead can enter your water through lead service lines and household plumbing. Contact the utility or test your water at the tap to know your actual exposure.
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
Contact Bloomington Water Utility—they may have records from construction permits or previous inspections. If your home was built before 1980, it's more likely. A plumber can also inspect the line where it enters your home.
How much does lead service line replacement cost?
Replacement typically costs $3,000–$25,000 depending on depth and soil conditions. Many utilities now offer cost-sharing or financing programs. Ask Bloomington whether grants or rebates are available.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Yes—lead exposure in young children can affect brain development and learning. If you're concerned, talk to your pediatrician and consider testing your water. The CDC website has detailed guidance on lead and children's health.