Lead Service Lines in NJ AMERICAN WATER - ATLANTIC COUNTY
NJ American Water serves about 120,000 people in Atlantic County. The utility has identified 617 lead service lines in its distribution system.
A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the main water line under the street. If your service line is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap—especially if water sits in the pipes overnight or if the water is corrosive.
What we know about your water system
NJ American Water - Atlantic County has completed an inventory of its service lines and found 617 that contain lead. This is the utility's official count as reported to the state.
The utility draws water from groundwater sources. Having an inventory is the first step toward understanding where lead service lines exist and planning replacements.
Does this mean my water has lead in it?
Not necessarily. The presence of a lead service line increases the risk that lead could leach into your water, but many factors affect whether it actually does—including water chemistry, temperature, and how long water sits in pipes.
The only way to know if lead is in your water is to test it. You can:
- Request a free test from your water utility
- Buy a certified test kit from a hardware store or lab (usually $20–$50)
- Send samples to an EPA-certified lab
If you have young children, pregnant people, or nursing mothers in your home, testing is especially important. Lead exposure in early childhood can affect development.
What should I do?
If you're concerned about lead:
1. Contact NJ American Water - Atlantic County directly to ask if your address is on the lead service line list. 2. Test your water if you haven't already—even if you're not on the known list, it's the only way to be sure. 3. Use a water filter certified for lead removal while you investigate further (NSF/ANSI 53 certification). 4. Ask your utility about replacement programs. Many water systems offer cost-sharing or grants to help homeowners replace lead service lines.
For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
Next steps for residents
- Call NJ American Water - Atlantic County to request your service line status
- Get your water tested by an EPA-certified lab
- If you find a lead service line, ask about replacement cost-sharing programs
- In the meantime, use a certified filter and flush your pipes before drinking or cooking
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 617 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact NJ American Water - Atlantic County with your address to check the utility's inventory. The utility has identified 617 lead service lines in its system. You can also hire a plumber to inspect your service line, or look at old records from your home.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead is a neurotoxin that can cause serious health problems, especially in young children and pregnant people. It has no safe exposure level. Talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC for health guidance.
Can I remove lead from my tap water myself?
A water filter certified for lead removal (look for NSF/ANSI 53 certification) can reduce lead at your tap. However, the safest long-term solution is to replace a lead service line. Filters require regular replacement and do not protect against lead in all water uses.
Does the utility have a program to replace lead service lines?
Contact NJ American Water - Atlantic County directly to ask about replacement programs, grants, or cost-sharing options. Many utilities offer assistance, and you may also qualify for state or federal funding.