ECWA DIRECT Lead Service Line Inventory

ECWA DIRECT serves 313,380 people in New York. Like all US water systems, the utility is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines — the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes.

What we know about ECWA DIRECT's lead lines

The utility has inventoried 7,406 service lines so far. Here's the breakdown:

• 10 known lead service lines
• 5,610 non-lead lines (copper, PVC, or other materials)
• 1,786 lines of unknown material — these have not yet been tested or confirmed

The remaining lines are either a mix of materials or still being assessed.

Why unknown lines matter

A service line marked as "unknown" doesn't necessarily mean it contains lead, but it hasn't been confirmed safe. ECWA DIRECT is still working to identify the material of 1,786 connections. If your address falls into the unknown category, your water utility should be able to help you determine whether your line is lead.

What you should do if you're concerned

If you live in ECWA DIRECT's service area:

1. Contact the utility directly to ask about your specific service line. They can tell you whether your line is known to be lead, non-lead, or still unknown. 2. Request testing if you're in the unknown group. The utility may offer free or low-cost testing, or can recommend certified labs. 3. Check your home's age. Lead service lines were commonly installed before the 1980s, so older homes are at higher risk. This is not a rule—newer homes can have lead lines too—but it's a useful starting point.

If your line is lead

A lead service line doesn't automatically mean your water is unsafe to drink right now. Lead enters water primarily when it sits in pipes, so flushing your tap before drinking (run it cold for 30 seconds to 2 minutes) can reduce exposure. The long-term solution is replacement, which the utility can discuss with you.

Funding for replacements

Check with ECWA DIRECT to learn whether they have applied for or received federal funding to help pay for lead line replacements in your community. Many utilities are using Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) grants to make replacements free or low-cost for customers.

Next steps for residents

• Contact ECWA DIRECT to confirm your service line material
• Ask whether your line is on the replacement schedule
• If you have young children, consult your pediatrician about water safety for your home
• Look into whether your utility offers rebates or grants for replacement

```json [ { "q": "Does ECWA DIRECT have lead in the water?", "a": "ECWA DIRECT has identified 10 known lead service lines connecting homes to the water main. Lead lines don't automatically contaminate water, but they can release lead over time. The best way to know your risk is to ask your utility whether your specific service line is lead." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "Contact ECWA DIRECT directly with your address and ask them to check their inventory. If your line is marked 'unknown,' request testing or a visual inspection. Lines installed before the 1980s are more likely to be lead, but the utility record is the reliable source." }, { "q": "Is it safe to drink tap water if I have a lead service line?", "a": "Flushing your tap before drinking (run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes) can reduce lead exposure. For concerns about health, especially for young children or pregnant people, consult your pediatrician or the CDC's guidance on lead and water." }, { "q": "Can ECWA DIRECT replace my lead service line?", "a": "Yes, water