FRANKLIN WATER WORKS Lead Service Line Inventory
Franklin Water Works serves approximately 7,200 people in New Hampshire. Like many older water systems across the US, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street to homes.
What we know about Franklin Water Works
Franklin Water Works draws from groundwater sources. The utility has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means they're either still in the process of identifying which homes have lead pipes, or the results haven't been publicly reported yet.
Current inventory status: No data available on lead, galvanized, or non-lead service lines.
Why this matters
A lead service line is the most direct route for lead to enter your drinking water. Even new lead pipes shed small amounts of lead, especially if your water is corrosive (naturally acidic). The only certain way to remove this risk is replacement.
If you live in Franklin Water Works' service area and your home was built before 1986, there's a reasonable chance your service line contains lead or lead-bearing materials like galvanized steel. Homes built after the 1986 ban on lead pipes are far less likely to have this problem, though it's not impossible.
What you should do now
Contact Franklin Water Works directly to ask:
- Whether your specific address has been inventoried
- What material your service line is made of (they may have records)
- Whether replacement programs or rebates are available
- When a complete inventory will be finished
You can also request a water test through your local health department or use a certified lab. Testing won't identify the service line material, but it will tell you if lead is actually present in your water at the tap.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your utility – Ask for the inventory status of your address and your service line material
- Get your water tested – A simple test shows whether lead is in your tap water right now
- Know your home's age – Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk
- Explore replacement options – Ask your utility about funding programs or low-interest loans for line replacement
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 I have a lead service line?
Contact Franklin Water Works with your address—they may have records of your line's material. You can also look where the water line enters your home; lead is dull gray, soft enough to scratch with a coin, and attracts a magnet weakly. The surest way is a professional inspection.
Can I remove lead from my water myself?
A certified water filter rated for lead (look for NSF/ANSI 53) can reduce lead at your tap, but it won't solve the problem of lead leaching from your service line itself. Replacement is the permanent solution.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead has no safe exposure level, especially for children under 6 and pregnant women. For health concerns specific to you or your family, talk to your doctor or call the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
Will the water utility replace my lead service line?
Policies vary. Contact Franklin Water Works to ask about replacement programs, cost-sharing, or rebates. Some states and utilities cover part or all of the cost; others require homeowners to pay.