Lead Service Lines in Bend, Oregon
What you need to know about Bend's water system
The City of Bend serves about 77,700 residents. Like most US water systems, Bend may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the public water main. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially in homes with older plumbing.
Current status: Bend has not yet completed a full inventory of its lead service lines. This is a federal requirement under the Lead and Copper Rule, and water systems across the country are still working through these surveys. Until an inventory is complete, you won't know for certain whether your home has a lead service line.
What this means for your home
If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance it has a lead service line—that's when lead solder and brass fixtures were still common in plumbing. However, age alone isn't a guarantee. The only way to know is to have your service line checked.
You can take action now:
- Contact the City of Bend to ask about your specific address and any available information about your service line.
- Consider having a plumber inspect the line where it enters your home (usually in the basement or crawl space).
- Test your drinking water. A simple water test costs $15–50 and will tell you if lead is present in the water itself.
When Bend's inventory will be ready
Water systems have until 2024–2026 to submit lead service line inventories under federal law, depending on their size. Bend will be required to share this inventory publicly once it's complete. Check back here or contact your utility directly for updates.
Next steps for residents
- Contact the City of Bend with questions about your service line or to request information about your address.
- Test your water through a certified lab or your local health department.
- Learn your options. If you do have a lead service line, replacement is the only permanent solution—filters are temporary measures.
- Check the CDC website for current guidance on reducing lead exposure, especially if children or pregnant women live in your home.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| 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 home is more likely to have one if it was built before 1986. The only certain way is to have a plumber inspect it where it enters your home, or contact the City of Bend for records. Once Bend completes its inventory, that information will be public.
Is lead in Bend's drinking water dangerous?
Lead in drinking water can be harmful, especially for children and pregnant women. The best way to know if lead is in your water is to test it. Contact your local health department or the CDC for guidance on health effects and precautions.
When will the City of Bend have a complete lead service line inventory?
Federal law requires water systems to complete inventories by 2024–2026. The City of Bend will publish this information when it's finished. Contact the utility directly for their current timeline.
What can I do if I have a lead service line?
Replacement is the only permanent fix. You can also use an NSF-certified lead filter as a temporary step. Contact the City of Bend to ask about replacement programs or funding that may be available to residents.