CHESTER WATER AUTHORITY Lead Service Line Inventory

What you need to know

Chester Water Authority serves about 140,000 people in Pennsylvania. Like all US water systems, they are required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to individual homes.

The current status: Chester Water Authority has not yet reported completing an inventory of their lead service lines. This means we don't have confirmed data yet on how many homes may have lead pipes in their area.

Lead service lines are a real concern. When water sits in a lead pipe overnight or for several hours, lead can leach into your drinking water. Infants, young children, and pregnant people are most vulnerable to lead's effects on development and health. Even low levels of exposure matter over time.

What this means for your home

If your home was built before 1950, there's a higher chance it has a lead service line—but homes built as recently as the 1980s can too. The only way to know for sure is to have your water tested or to ask your utility directly about the pipes serving your property.

You can take steps to reduce risk right now, even before you know your service line material:

• Test your water. Contact Chester Water Authority for a free or low-cost test kit. Results usually come back in 1–2 weeks.
• Let water run. After the tap sits unused for 6+ hours (overnight, for example), run the water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking. This flushes out water that may have picked up lead.
• Use cold water for cooking and drinking. Hot water dissolves lead faster than cold water.
• Clean your aerators regularly. Sediment can build up and release lead particles.

Next steps for residents

• Contact Chester Water Authority at their main number to ask: "Do I have a lead service line?" or "Can I get my water tested?"
• If you have young children or are pregnant, mention this when requesting a test—it may expedite results.
• Request a copy of the water system's lead service line inventory once it's available.
• Monitor the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline or your utility's website for inventory updates.

Does Chester Water Authority have lead in the water?

Lead contamination depends on your service line (the pipe bringing water to your home) and your home's plumbing. Chester Water Authority hasn't yet published their lead service line inventory, so the full picture isn't clear. The best way to know your risk is to contact the utility and request a free water test.

How do I know if my house has a lead service line?

You can contact Chester Water Authority and ask about your specific address, or hire a plumber to inspect the pipe entering your home. The utility is required to tell you if they know your service line is lead. A free or low-cost test of your water is also a practical first step.

Is lead in drinking water dangerous?

Yes, especially for children under 6, pregnant people, and infants. Lead builds up in the body over time and affects brain development and learning. Even small amounts matter. For health concerns, talk to your pediatrician or call the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO.

What should I do right now about lead in my water?

Let tap water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes if it's been sitting unused for 6+ hours, use cold water for cooking and drinking, and request a water test from your utility. These steps reduce risk while you figure out whether your home has a lead service line.