Lead Service Lines in Derry, New Hampshire
Derry Water Dept serves about 17,290 people in Derry, New Hampshire. Like many older water systems across the country, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main in the street to homes built before the 1980s.
What you need to know
Lead service lines can leak lead into drinking water, especially if water is corrosive or if pipes are old and damaged. Even low levels of lead in water are a health concern, particularly for children and pregnant people.
Derry Water Dept currently has no publicly available lead service line inventory online. That means the water system either hasn't completed its required inventory yet, or hasn't posted it where residents can see it.
What's required
All water systems must maintain an inventory of known lead service lines and submit it to New Hampshire's Department of Environmental Services. Utilities are also supposed to share this information with customers in an accessible way.
What you can do right now
Contact Derry Water Dept directly. Ask them:
- How many lead service lines are on their system?
- Is your address served by a lead line, copper, or galvanized steel pipe?
- What's their plan to replace lead lines?
- Do they offer free or reduced-cost testing?
If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead. Even if it does, you can reduce exposure by flushing your tap before drinking (let it run 30 seconds to 2 minutes), using cold water for cooking and drinking, and having water tested by a certified lab.
The EPA and CDC have resources on lead in drinking water at their websites if you want more technical detail.
Next steps for residents
- Call or email Derry Water Dept to ask about your service line and get a copy of their inventory
- Request a water test through your utility or a state-certified lab if you're concerned
- Visit the EPA's lead in drinking water page for testing and treatment options
- Consult your pediatrician if you have children under 6 or are pregnant—they can advise on specific precautions
---
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Derry Water Department have lead service lines?
Derry Water Dept does not have a publicly posted inventory yet, so the exact number of lead lines is not available online. Contact the utility directly to ask about your address and their lead inventory status.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact Derry Water Dept with your address—they should know whether your connection is lead, copper, or galvanized steel. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead lines. You can also have a plumber inspect your pipes.
Is lead in drinking water dangerous?
Yes, lead can harm children's brain development and cause other health problems. Even low levels are a concern. The CDC recommends testing if you're pregnant or have children under 6, and talking to your doctor about precautions.
Can I remove lead from my tap water myself?
Flushing your tap before drinking, using cold water for cooking and drinking, and installing a certified filter can reduce lead exposure. For permanent removal, the only solution is to replace a lead service line—ask your utility about replacement programs.