NJ AMERICAN WATER - OCEAN CITY Lead Service Line Inventory
NJ American Water – Ocean City serves about 127,000 people in the Ocean City area. Like all US water utilities, they are required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs)—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line underground.
What we know about lead pipes here
The utility has identified 413 confirmed lead service lines in their system. This is the count they have documented so far. Because lead pipes can pose a health risk over time (especially for young children, pregnant people, and infants), knowing whether your home has one matters.
Important: The total number of lead pipes in the system may be higher. Utilities often classify pipes as "unknown" when they cannot visually confirm the material, or when records are incomplete. NJ American Water – Ocean City has provided a confirmed count but may still be investigating additional lines. Contact the utility directly to ask about their ongoing inventory work and whether your address has been assessed.
Why this matters for your home
If your home is served by a lead service line, the lead can leach into drinking water—especially if the water is corrosive or if pipes sit unused for hours. Exposure is a particular concern for children under six, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
You don't need to panic, but you do need to know your status. A water test can tell you whether lead is present in your water right now. A plumber can determine whether your service line contains lead.
Next steps for residents
- Contact NJ American Water – Ocean City directly to ask: (1) whether your address has a lead service line, and (2) what testing or replacement options are available to you.
- Test your water for lead. The utility can advise on free or low-cost testing programs.
- Talk to your pediatrician or doctor if you have health concerns about past or current lead exposure. The CDC website has resources on lead and health.
- Ask about replacement programs. Some utilities offer funding or assistance to help remove lead lines from homes.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 413 |
|---|---|
| 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 – Ocean City with your address. They can check their inventory records. You can also have a licensed plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home, or have your water tested for lead.
Is it safe to drink tap water if there's a lead service line?
The only way to know is to test your water. Lead pipes don't always mean high lead levels in drinking water—it depends on water chemistry and pipe condition. Get a test done; it's often free or low-cost through your utility.
What should I do if lead is found in my water?
Contact your utility for guidance. In the short term, use bottled water for drinking and cooking if you're pregnant, nursing, or have young children. Ask your utility about replacement assistance programs and long-term solutions.
Does NJ American Water – Ocean City have a plan to replace lead service lines?
Contact the utility directly to ask about their replacement timeline and whether you qualify for any assistance programs. Replacement eligibility and funding vary by location.