Lead Service Lines in MCWA GENESEE
What you need to know
MCWA GENESEE serves about 16,500 people in New York. The utility has completed an inventory of its water pipes and found that a significant portion of the system may contain lead service lines—the pipes that carry water from the main line under the street into your home.
Out of 56,540 pipes inventoried:
- 14,561 are known to contain lead
- 15,566 have unknown material (these need further testing to determine if they contain lead)
- 26,413 are non-lead pipes
This means roughly one in four pipes in the system is confirmed lead, and another one in four has an undetermined status.
Why this matters
Lead service lines can leach lead into drinking water, especially in homes with aggressive water chemistry or during periods of low water pressure. Exposure to lead in drinking water poses health risks, particularly for young children and pregnant people. The only way to fully eliminate this risk is to replace the lead service line.
What MCWA GENESEE is doing
The utility has inventoried its system, which is an important first step. However, the utility has not yet published a public replacement plan or timeline on its website. Information about funding for lead line replacement, timelines, and next steps is not currently available through LeadPipeLookup.
What you can do right now
Contact MCWA GENESEE directly to find out:
- Whether your specific address has a lead service line, a non-lead pipe, or unknown status
- What testing or replacement programs are available
- Whether you qualify for assistance with replacement costs
In the meantime, consider having your water tested for lead if you have young children or are pregnant. The utility may offer free testing, or you can order a test kit from a certified lab.
Next steps for residents
- Call or email MCWA GENESEE to ask about your service line status and any available replacement programs
- Request a water test if you're concerned about lead levels in your home
- Visit the CDC website for guidance on reducing lead exposure while you plan next steps
- Ask about state or federal funding to help cover the cost of replacement
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 56,540 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does MCWA GENESEE have lead in the water?
MCWA GENESEE has identified 14,561 confirmed lead service lines out of 56,540 pipes inventoried. Another 15,566 pipes have unknown material status. Lead service lines can leach lead into water, but the presence of a lead line doesn't automatically mean your water contains lead—it depends on your water's chemistry and other factors. Contact the utility to learn your home's status.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact MCWA GENESEE directly with your address and ask them to check their inventory. They can tell you whether your specific service line is confirmed lead, non-lead, or unknown. If it's unknown, the utility may be able to perform testing or inspection.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement costs vary widely depending on depth, soil conditions, and local labor rates—typically $3,000 to $25,000 or more. Ask MCWA GENESEE about any rebate programs, payment plans, or state/federal funding that may help cover costs.
Is lead in drinking water safe for kids?
No. The CDC recommends minimizing lead exposure for children under 6 and pregnant people. Even small amounts can affect development. If you're concerned about your child's exposure, contact your pediatrician or the CDC for guidance.