BILLINGS HEIGHTS CO WATER DIST OF Lead Service Line Inventory
What you need to know about lead pipes in your water system
BILLINGS HEIGHTS CO WATER DIST OF serves about 12,000 people in Montana. The utility draws its water from surface sources like rivers or lakes.
The current status: This water system has not yet inventoried its lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to individual homes. Without a complete inventory, the utility and residents don't have a full picture of where lead pipes exist in the system.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a direct pathway for lead to enter your home's drinking water. Lead exposure, especially for young children and pregnant women, can cause serious health effects. The only way to eliminate this risk completely is to replace the lead pipe with a non-lead alternative.
Federal regulations now require all water utilities to inventory their lead service lines. Inventories help utilities plan replacement programs and help residents understand whether their home may be at risk.
What the utility should do next
BILLINGS HEIGHTS CO WATER DIST OF needs to:
- Complete a full inventory of all service lines in the system
- Share findings publicly so residents know whether their homes are served by lead pipes
- Develop and fund a replacement plan
If this utility has received funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law or other federal programs, those dollars can be used to accelerate lead line replacements.
Steps for residents
Contact BILLINGS HEIGHTS CO WATER DIST OF directly to:
- Ask about the status of their lead service line inventory
- Find out whether your property address is known to have a lead, galvanized, or non-lead service line
- Learn whether replacement programs are available and whether you qualify for assistance
In the meantime, you can reduce exposure by running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if water has sat in pipes overnight, and by using cold water only for drinking and cooking (hot water dissolves lead more readily). For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your utility at BILLINGS HEIGHTS CO WATER DIST OF to ask about service line status for your address
- Request a free water test if you're concerned about lead levels in your home
- Check the CDC website for more information about lead exposure risk and prevention
- Ask about replacement assistance programs, including federal or state grants that may cover costs
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 and ask them to check your property address against their service line inventory. You can also request a free water test from your utility. If water test results show elevated lead, that suggests a lead pipe is present.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Yes. Lead exposure can affect childhood development and learning. For detailed health information and guidance, speak with your pediatrician or visit the CDC website on lead and drinking water.
Can I remove the lead service line myself?
Service line replacement is a major undertaking that typically requires a licensed contractor and coordination with your water utility. Ask your utility about replacement programs or financial assistance—many utilities now offer grants or low-interest loans to help with costs.
What should I do while I wait for my service line to be replaced?
Run cold water from the tap for 30 seconds in the morning or after the water has sat unused for several hours. Use cold water only for drinking and cooking, since hot water leaches lead faster. These steps reduce—but don't eliminate—lead exposure.