MISSOULA WATER Lead Service Line Inventory
What You Need to Know
Missoula Water serves approximately 68,200 people in the Missoula area. The utility draws its water from groundwater sources.
As of now, Missoula Water has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the utility is still in the process of identifying which homes and buildings are connected to the water main through lead pipes—a requirement under federal Safe Drinking Water Act rules.
Why This Matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. Even if your local water treatment plant removes lead, old lead pipes can release it as water travels to your home. The only way to know your home's risk is to have your service line checked or to know your home's age and the utility's replacement records.
Until Missoula Water completes its inventory, the utility and residents don't have a full picture of where lead service lines exist. This inventory is a critical first step toward identifying homes that need testing or pipe replacement.
Getting Your Home Checked
You don't have to wait for the utility's inventory to protect your family. You can:
- Request your service line material directly from Missoula Water. Ask them what material connects the water main to your home. If they don't have records, you may need to hire a plumber to check the pipe outside your foundation.
- Test your water. A lead test costs $20–50 and shows whether lead is actually present in your tap water. Contact Missoula Water or your local health department for a list of certified labs.
- Use a filter. NSF-certified filters marked for lead reduction can lower lead levels while you wait for permanent solutions like pipe replacement.
If you have young children or are pregnant, contact your doctor or the CDC for guidance on water safety.
Contact Missoula Water
For questions about your specific service line or to request an inventory check:
- Contact the utility directly through their website or customer service line
- Ask for your service line material and installation date if available
---
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Missoula Water have lead service lines?
Missoula Water is still completing its lead service line inventory, so the utility does not yet have a full count of how many lead lines exist in the system. You can contact the utility directly to ask about your specific home.
How do I know if my home has a lead service line?
Contact Missoula Water and ask for your service line material and installation date. If they don't have records, a plumber can inspect the pipe where it enters your home. You can also test your water for lead.
Is lead in Missoula Water's drinking water?
Lead in tap water usually comes from old lead service lines, not from the treatment plant. A simple water test (about $20–50) will tell you if lead is present in your home's water.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead?
Test your water, ask your utility about your service line, and use an NSF-certified lead filter while you decide next steps. If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician or call the CDC for guidance.