ECWA AMHERST Lead Service Line Inventory
ECWA AMHERST serves 92,697 people across its water system in New York. Like all US water utilities, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that may carry water from the main water line in the street to your home.
What the inventory shows
As of the most recent count, ECWA AMHERST has inventoried 7,406 service lines:
- 10 confirmed lead service lines
- 5,610 non-lead service lines
- 1,786 lines of unknown material
That means about 24% of inventoried lines still need confirmation of their material. The utility continues to identify whether these unknown lines contain lead.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. Even newer homes can have them—they were legal to install until 1986. Lead can leach into your water, especially if the water is corrosive or if pipes are old and corroded.
If you have a lead service line, the risk is real but manageable with the right steps. If you don't know whether your line contains lead, testing your water and understanding your options is the first move.
Get your water tested
Your utility can tell you whether your service line is lead, non-lead, or unknown. If it's unknown or confirmed lead, request a free or low-cost water test through your utility or a certified lab. Testing takes a few days and costs $20–50 if you pay out of pocket.
Replacement and funding
New York utilities are working to replace lead service lines, though timelines vary. Ask ECWA AMHERST whether replacement programs are available in your area and whether you qualify for cost assistance. Some federal and state funding is flowing to water systems for this work.
Next steps for residents
- Contact ECWA AMHERST directly to learn whether your service line is lead, non-lead, or unknown. Provide your address.
- Request a water test if your line is unknown or confirmed lead. This tells you whether lead is actually reaching your tap right now.
- Ask about replacement programs and whether your utility offers financial assistance for line replacement.
- Learn interim steps (flushing, filters) if replacement isn't immediate—your utility or local health department can advise.
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 7,406 |
|---|---|
| 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 ECWA AMHERST with your address and ask them to check their inventory. They may also send someone to inspect the visible portion of your line near the street. If it's still unknown, a water test will show whether lead is reaching your tap.
Is lead in water dangerous for children?
Lead is a serious health concern for children and pregnant people. For specific health guidance, talk to your pediatrician or visit the CDC's lead and health page.
What should I do if my water line is lead?
First, get a water test to see whether lead is present in your tap water. Then contact your utility about replacement programs and financing options. In the meantime, your utility can advise on short-term steps like flushing.
Will my water utility replace my lead service line?
Many utilities now have replacement programs, sometimes with cost sharing or full coverage for homeowners. Contact ECWA AMHERST to ask whether they offer replacement, who pays for it, and how long the wait is.