RIDGEWOOD WATER Lead Service Line Inventory
What you need to know
RIDGEWOOD WATER serves about 61,700 people in New Jersey. The utility has identified 1,322 lead service lines in its water system—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to homes.
Lead service lines are a real concern. Water sitting in a lead pipe can pick up lead, especially if your water is corrosive or your pipes are old. Kids and pregnant people are most vulnerable to lead exposure.
The good news: RIDGEWOOD WATER has completed an inventory of its system. That's the first step. It means the utility knows where the problem is.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is the pipe that carries water from the public main to your home. If it was installed before the 1980s, there's a decent chance it contains lead. Some homes have a lead line on the public side only, some on the private side (your property), and some on both.
You cannot see or taste lead in water. Testing is the only way to know if lead is present in your tap water.
What RIDGEWOOD WATER has done
The utility has inventoried its service lines and identified which ones are lead. Of the lines they've checked so far, 1,322 are confirmed lead.
Whether the utility has a replacement plan or funding to remove these lines isn't clear from the available data. This matters because replacement is expensive—it can cost $3,000–$8,000+ per line.
What you should do now
Get your water tested. Contact RIDGEWOOD WATER and ask:
- Is my service line lead or unknown?
- Can they test your tap water for free, or provide a list of certified labs?
If your line is lead or unknown, use a water filter certified for lead (look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53) on your tap while waiting for replacement, or use bottled water for drinking and cooking.
If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about testing. The CDC also has guidance on lead and children's health.
Next steps for residents
- Contact RIDGEWOOD WATER directly to ask about your service line status and water testing options.
- Request information about any planned lead service line replacement program and timeline.
- Have your water tested by a certified lab if you're concerned about lead exposure.
- If you have young children, discuss lead risk with your pediatrician.
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 1,322 |
|---|---|
| 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 RIDGEWOOD WATER with your address and ask them directly. They have completed an inventory and can tell you if your line is lead, non-lead, or still unknown. You can also have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home—lead is soft and dull gray.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead can accumulate in the body over time and cause serious health effects, especially in children and pregnant people. For specific health concerns, contact your doctor or call the CDC's lead hotline. Testing your water is the best way to know if lead is actually present in your tap.
Can I remove a lead service line myself?
No. Lead service line replacement must be done by a licensed plumber or contractor. It's expensive and involves digging and safety precautions. Ask RIDGEWOOD WATER if they offer a replacement program or rebates.
What should I do right now if I think I have a lead line?
Use a water filter certified for lead (NSF/ANSI Standard 53) on your kitchen tap, or use bottled water for drinking and cooking. Then contact your utility to confirm your line type and ask about replacement options.