Lead Service Lines in St. Joseph, Missouri
MO American St. Joseph serves about 89,171 people in the St. Joseph area. Like all US water systems, the utility is required by federal law to identify and inventory lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line.
What we know about St. Joseph's lead service lines
As of now, MO American St. Joseph has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its service area. This means the utility is still in the process of locating and documenting which homes have lead service lines.
The utility sources its water from groundwater (wells), which may affect lead risk differently than surface water systems—but lead can still leach from service lines regardless of source type.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a primary source of lead in drinking water. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead, since lead pipes and lead-based solder were used in plumbing for most of the 20th century.
Exposure to lead in drinking water is a real health concern, especially for young children and pregnant women. Even low levels can affect development and learning.
What you can do now
Get your water tested. Contact MO American St. Joseph and ask about a free or low-cost lead test kit. Testing is the only way to know if lead is actually in your water.
Know your home's age. If your house was built before 1990, assume your service line may contain lead until you confirm otherwise.
Check the utility's progress. As the inventory develops, the utility will publish its findings. You can request information about your specific address or service line.
Don't wait for the full inventory. If you're concerned, take action now—test your water and consider interim measures like using a certified lead-removing filter while you await replacement.
Next steps for residents
- Contact MO American St. Joseph directly to request a lead test kit and ask about your service line status.
- Visit the utility's website or call their customer service line for the most current inventory updates.
- If you have young children or are pregnant, consult your pediatrician or doctor about lead exposure risks.
- Learn more about lead service line replacement programs and funding at the EPA or your state health department.
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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
Does St. Joseph Missouri have lead in the water?
St. Joseph's water system is still completing its lead service line inventory, so the full extent isn't yet known. The only way to know if your home has lead in the water is to test it. Contact MO American St. Joseph to request a free or low-cost test kit.
How do I know if my service line is lead?
Visually inspecting the pipe where it enters your home can help—lead pipes are soft, dull gray, and can be scratched with a coin. But the only certain way is to have the utility check or a professional inspect it. Contact MO American St. Joseph with your address to ask about your service line.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my drinking water?
Test your water first. Use a certified filter rated for lead removal, and consider boiling water for drinking and cooking (though this doesn't remove lead). For health concerns, especially if you have young children, talk to your pediatrician or local health department.
Will the utility replace my lead service line?
Replacement programs vary. Contact MO American St. Joseph to ask about their replacement timeline, costs, and whether federal or state funding is available to help cover the expense.