MCWA Lead Service Line Inventory
MCWA serves 768,458 people across New York. The utility has inventoried 56,540 service lines and identified which ones contain lead—a critical first step in protecting your water supply.
What MCWA found
As of the most recent data, MCWA's inventory shows:
- 14,561 confirmed lead service lines (the pipes that connect the water main to your home)
- 26,413 non-lead service lines
- 15,566 service lines with unknown material
The remaining lines in the inventory are either not yet classified or fall into other categories.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are the most common source of lead in drinking water. Even if your water leaves the treatment plant clean, it can pick up lead as it travels through these old pipes—especially in homes built before 1986, when lead pipes were still in use.
If you live in an older home or a neighborhood with older infrastructure, your line may be one of the uninventoried or unknown ones. MCWA is still working to classify all lines in the system.
Your next steps
You don't have to wait for the full inventory to take action:
- Contact MCWA directly to find out if your service line is lead, non-lead, or still unknown. Have your address ready.
- Request a water test if your line is unknown or lead. MCWA may offer free or low-cost testing.
- Consider a point-of-use filter (like a faucet or pitcher filter certified for lead) while you wait for answers. NSF/ANSI Standard 53 filters remove lead.
- Flush your taps before drinking or cooking: run cold water for 30–60 seconds after the water has been off for more than 6 hours.
If you have young children or are pregnant, the CDC recommends extra caution. Speak with your pediatrician or doctor about testing if you're concerned.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 56,540 |
|---|---|
| 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 MCWA with your address—they have the inventory data. You can also have a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home, or request a water test from the utility. Many older homes built before 1986 have lead lines, but the only way to know for certain is to check.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, especially in children and pregnant people. Even small amounts matter. For detailed health information, visit the CDC website or talk to your doctor.
What should I do if my service line is lead?
MCWA may have a replacement program or funding options—ask about timelines and costs. In the meantime, use a certified lead-removal filter, flush your taps before drinking, and consider having your water tested.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Costs vary by location and who does the work. Contact MCWA to learn about any utility-sponsored replacement programs, rebates, or financial assistance they may offer.