SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY Lead Service Line Inventory
What This Page Shows
This page summarizes what SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY knows about lead service lines in its water system. A lead service line is the pipe that connects the water main under the street to your home. If it's made of lead, it can leach lead into your drinking water—especially if the water is corrosive or you haven't run the tap in a few hours.
Current Inventory Status
SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY serves about 1.1 million people in New York and has inventoried 5,375 service lines. Here's what they've found:
- 5,374 are confirmed non-lead
- 1 service line has unknown material
- 0 confirmed lead service lines identified so far
The utility draws water from groundwater sources.
What "Unknown" Means
One service line is listed as unknown material. This doesn't necessarily mean it contains lead—it means the utility hasn't yet confirmed what it's made of. Age, visible corrosion, or records gaps can make lines hard to classify. The utility should work to identify this line over time.
Why This Matters for Your Home
Even if your utility's inventory shows mostly non-lead lines, your home's risk depends on:
- Your line's actual material — The utility's records may not be 100% complete or accurate. If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance of lead service lines.
- Your water's chemistry — Corrosive water increases lead leaching, regardless of whether your line is confirmed lead or just old metal.
- Your household habits — Stagnant water in pipes picks up more lead. Running the tap for 30 seconds before drinking helps.
Getting Your Home Tested
The most reliable way to know if lead is reaching your tap is to test your water. Many water utilities offer free or reduced-cost testing kits. Contact SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY directly to ask about testing programs.
If you're concerned about health effects—especially if children or pregnant people live in your home—talk to your pediatrician or local health department. The CDC has guidance on lead and health.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact your utility — Call SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY and ask about your specific service line material and whether free water testing is available.
- Request your service line records — Ask the utility for documentation of your home's line material. They may have old maps or construction records.
- Consider a test — A water test takes the guesswork out. Results take 1–2 weeks.
- Reduce short-term risk — Run the tap for 30 seconds before using water for drinking or cooking, especially if water has sat overnight.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 5,375 |
|---|---|
| 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?
Your water utility's inventory is the first place to check—contact SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY with your address. You can also hire a plumber to inspect your line or test your water for lead. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead lines.
Is lead service line water safe to drink?
Lead can leach into water from lead service lines, especially if water sits in pipes or the water is corrosive. Running the tap for 30 seconds before drinking and using cold water for cooking helps reduce exposure. A water test tells you if lead is present at your tap.
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
Contact your water utility immediately and ask about corrosion control or replacement programs. For health concerns, speak to your doctor or pediatrician. The EPA and CDC have guidance on reducing lead exposure at home.
Who pays to replace a lead service line?
Costs and responsibility vary by utility and state. Some utilities cover replacement of the public portion (main to property line), while homeowners typically pay for the private side. Contact SUFFOLK COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY to ask about assistance programs or replacement timelines.