SALEM WATER DEPT Lead Service Line Inventory
Salem Water Dept serves about 21,000 people in New Hampshire. Like many older water systems across the US, Salem may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the water main. Lead service lines can leach lead into drinking water, especially when water is corrosive.
What we know about Salem's lead lines
Salem Water Dept has not yet completed a full lead service line inventory. This means the utility has not yet publicly documented how many lead, galvanized, or non-lead service lines exist in its system. An inventory is the first step to understanding the scope of potential lead exposure in the community.
Federal law now requires all water systems to complete lead service line inventories by October 2024, with replacement plans to follow. Salem is working to meet this deadline.
Why inventories matter
A complete inventory tells you:
- Whether your home has a lead service line
- How many homes in your area are affected
- The utility's plan and timeline for replacements
Once Salem finishes its inventory, the data should become publicly available. Residents can then contact the utility to learn about their specific service line and any replacement programs.
Lead in drinking water: the basics
Lead service lines are a major source of lead in tap water. Infants, young children, and pregnant people face the greatest health risks from lead exposure. If you're concerned about lead in your home, contact your pediatrician or the CDC for guidance on testing and next steps.
Even if your service line isn't lead, older homes may have lead solder or fixtures in their plumbing. A simple first step: run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking to flush out water that's been sitting in pipes overnight.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Salem Water Dept to ask about their lead service line inventory progress and timeline for completion.
- Request information about your specific service line once the inventory is public.
- Test your water for lead if you have concerns—the utility or your health department can provide guidance or certified labs.
- Visit the EPA's lead and copper rule page for national resources on lead in drinking water and what homeowners can do.
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 home has a lead service line?
Contact Salem Water Dept directly—they can tell you based on your address and their records or inventory. You can also ask if they've inventoried your property yet, or check their website once the inventory is published.
Is lead in drinking water dangerous?
Yes, lead poses serious health risks, especially for young children and pregnant people. For guidance on testing and health concerns, talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC.
What should I do if my service line is lead?
Contact Salem Water Dept to ask about replacement programs, rebates, or assistance. Some utilities help cover the cost. In the meantime, flushing your tap before drinking or cooking can reduce lead exposure.
When will Salem have a complete lead service line inventory?
Federal law requires completion by October 2024. Contact Salem Water Dept for their current progress and expected publication date.