HELENA WATER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
Helena Water System serves about 32,091 people in Montana. Like all US water utilities, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line under the street.
What we know right now
Helena Water System has not yet publicly reported the results of its lead service line inventory. This doesn't mean there are no lead pipes; it means the utility is still in the process of gathering this information or has not yet made it available.
Lead service lines are a real concern because lead can leach into drinking water, especially in older homes or where water is slightly acidic. The only way to know if your home has one is to check your water utility's inventory or contact the utility directly.
Your next steps
Contact Helena Water System directly to ask:
- Whether your address has a lead service line
- When the utility plans to release its full inventory
- What testing or treatment options are available to you
The utility should have records on file, even if the public inventory isn't complete yet.
If you have concerns about lead in your water, the CDC recommends that parents of young children and pregnant people take this seriously. A pediatrician or your local health department can advise on testing and precautions.
Next steps for residents
- Call or email Helena Water System and ask about the lead service line at your specific address
- Request the inventory timeline — ask when results will be publicly available
- Get your water tested if you're concerned; many utilities offer free or low-cost testing
- Contact Montana's Department of Environmental Quality if the utility doesn't respond or you need more information
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 Helena Water System directly with your address. They maintain records of service line materials even if the full public inventory isn't published yet. You can also have a plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home.
Is lead in drinking water dangerous?
Yes, especially for young children and pregnant people. Lead can affect brain development and health. Contact your pediatrician or the CDC for guidance on testing and protection steps.
What should I do if my home has a lead service line?
You have options: use a certified lead filter on your tap, flush your pipes before drinking, or schedule replacement (which may be eligible for utility or government funding). Helena Water System can explain what's available in your area.
When will Helena Water System publish its full lead inventory?
The utility has not yet posted a public deadline. Call or email them to ask for a timeline, or check their website for updates.