ECWA BOSTON Lead Service Line Inventory
ECWA BOSTON serves about 7,250 people in New York. Like many older water systems across the US, this utility has identified lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes—in its service area.
What we know about lead service lines here
As of the latest inventory data, ECWA BOSTON has identified:
- 10 confirmed lead service lines
- 1,786 lines of unknown material (likely installed before lead use stopped, so some may contain lead)
- 5,610 non-lead service lines
- Total lines inventoried: 7,406
The "unknown" category is important. Many older pipes were never documented when installed. Your line could be lead even if your home isn't on the confirmed list.
Why this matters
Lead leaches into water, especially in homes with older plumbing or when water sits in pipes overnight. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development. If you have young children or are pregnant, this is worth taking seriously.
The good news: lead service lines can be replaced, and point-of-use filters (like pitcher filters certified for lead) reduce exposure while you wait for replacement.
What ECWA BOSTON is doing
The utility has completed an inventory of service lines across its system. However, the specific status of a replacement plan is not listed in public records we reviewed.
To find out if your property has a lead service line and whether replacement programs exist, you'll need to contact the utility directly.
Your home's risk
You can't know for certain if your service line is lead without testing the water or having a plumber inspect it. The safest approach: assume older homes may have lead lines and take precautions.
Next steps for residents
- Contact ECWA BOSTON to ask if your address has a confirmed or suspected lead service line. Ask about replacement programs or financial assistance.
- Have your water tested for lead if you have young children or plan to become pregnant. Contact your local health department for a list of certified labs.
- Use a filter certified for lead reduction (NSF/ANSI Standard 53) on drinking and cooking water if lead is a concern while you investigate further.
- For health questions, speak with your pediatrician or call the CDC's water safety hotline.
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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
Does ECWA BOSTON have lead in the water?
ECWA BOSTON has identified 10 confirmed lead service lines and 1,786 lines of unknown material that may contain lead. Presence of lead service lines does not mean all water is unsafe, but it increases risk in homes connected to those lines.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact ECWA BOSTON directly—they maintain the service line inventory. You can also hire a plumber to inspect your line, or have your water tested by a certified lab to check for lead.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Yes. Even low levels of lead exposure can affect children's brain development. If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about testing and protective measures.
What can I do right now about lead in my water?
Use a water filter certified for lead (NSF/ANSI 53) on drinking and cooking water, flush stagnant water from lines before use, and contact your utility about replacement programs or assistance.