FLATHEAD COUNTY WATER AND SEWER Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
FLATHEAD COUNTY WATER AND SEWER serves 7,775 people in Montana. The system draws from groundwater sources.
Lead Service Line Status
This water utility has not yet completed a lead service line inventory. No data is currently available about how many lead pipes connect homes to the public water system in this service area.
Federal law requires all US water systems to locate and inventory lead service lines by October 2024. If your utility hasn't finished this work, they must publish their inventory and a timeline for replacement as soon as it's complete.
What This Means for Your Home
A lead service line is the pipe that runs from the water main under the street to your home's foundation. Lead pipes can corrode over time, releasing lead into drinking water—especially in homes with naturally acidic water or when water sits in pipes overnight.
You may have a lead service line if:
- Your home was built before 1986 (when lead pipes were still common)
- You live in an older neighborhood
- Your utility hasn't yet mapped your specific address
You may not have one if:
- Your home is newer or was recently replumbed
- Your utility has already confirmed your line is copper, plastic, or another non-lead material
The only way to know for certain is to ask your water utility or contact a licensed plumber to inspect your service line.
How to Get Answers
Contact FLATHEAD COUNTY WATER AND SEWER directly to:
- Ask whether your specific address has a lead service line
- Request a copy of the inventory when it's available
- Find out their timeline for replacements
- Learn about free or discounted testing and replacement programs
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact your utility and ask about your service line status and any lead testing programs
- Test your water for lead if you're concerned—many utilities offer free testing
- Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking; flush the tap for 30 seconds after long periods of non-use
- Talk to your pediatrician if you have young children and suspect lead exposure
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does FLATHEAD COUNTY WATER AND SEWER have lead in the water?
The utility has not yet completed its lead service line inventory, so no data is available yet. A lead service line doesn't automatically mean unsafe water, but it's a potential source of lead. Contact your utility to ask about your specific address and to request free testing.
How do I know if my home has a lead service line?
Ask your water utility if they have mapping data for your address, or contact a licensed plumber to inspect the pipe entering your home's foundation. The utility is required to share inventory results once complete.
Is lead service line replacement covered by the government?
Many utilities have received federal funding for lead line replacement and testing programs. Contact FLATHEAD COUNTY WATER AND SEWER to ask about free or discounted replacement options and whether your home qualifies.
What should I do right now if I'm worried about lead?
Request a free water test from your utility, run cold water for 30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking, and avoid hot tap water for food or formula. For health concerns, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC.