Lead Service Lines at CAMP HOOVER

What you need to know

CAMP HOOVER serves 175 people in New York. The water system has inventoried 39,209 service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes and buildings.

Of those:

• 17,253 are confirmed lead service lines
• 5,237 are confirmed non-lead
• 16,719 are unknown (material not yet determined)
• The rest are other types

Lead service lines can leach lead into drinking water, especially in homes with corrosive water or stagnant water sitting in pipes overnight. Children under 6 and pregnant people are most vulnerable to lead's effects on development and health.

What this inventory means

New York State and the EPA require all water systems to identify and track lead service lines. CAMP HOOVER's inventory is part of that ongoing effort. The inventory helps the utility and residents understand where lead pipes exist so they can be replaced or managed.

An inventory is a snapshot—not a complete map yet. "Unknown" lines need further testing or inspection. Even if your line isn't listed as lead, older homes (built before 1980) are more likely to have lead pipes.

What you should do now

Lead exposure is preventable. Whether your service line is confirmed lead, unknown, or non-lead:

• Get your water tested. A simple test costs $20–50 and tells you if lead is in your tap water right now. Contact CAMP HOOVER for approved labs or testing kits.
• Flush your pipes before drinking. Let cold water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes each morning or after several hours without use. This clears stagnant water from pipes.
• Use cold water for cooking and drinking. Hot water leaches lead faster.
• Ask CAMP HOOVER about replacement. If you have a lead service line, the utility may have replacement programs or cost-sharing options. Some states fund replacement through grants.

If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or OB-GYN about lead risk.

Next steps for residents

• Contact CAMP HOOVER to ask if your property has a lead service line and how to get your water tested.
• Request a water quality test from the utility or an EPA-certified lab.
• If your line is lead, ask about replacement programs and timelines.
• Visit the New York State Department of Health lead and water page for additional resources.

```json [ { "q": "How do I know if I have a lead service line?", "a": "CAMP HOOVER has inventoried its service lines, so contact the utility directly with your address to check their records. You can also hire a plumber to visually inspect the pipe where it enters your home (lead is dull gray and soft) or have it tested. About 16,719 lines at this utility are still unknown, so inspection may be needed." }, { "q": "Is lead in my water dangerous?", "a": "Lead in drinking water can harm brain development in young children and cause other serious health effects. The CDC recommends testing water if you have children under 6 or are pregnant. Even small amounts matter, so if you're concerned, talk to your pediatrician or doctor." }, { "q": "Can I remove a lead service line myself?", "a": "No. Service line replacement must be done by a licensed plumber and usually requires permits and inspection. Contact CAMP HOOVER first—some utilities offer replacement programs, rebates, or cost-sharing to help residents cover the cost." }, { "q": "What should I do right now if I'm worried about lead?", "a": "Flush your pipes for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking, use cold water for drinking and cooking, and get your