Lead Service Lines at YORK WATER CO
YORK WATER CO serves 206,762 people across Pennsylvania. Like all water systems in the US, it's required to identify and inventory lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to your home.
What we know about YORK WATER CO's lead service lines
The utility has not yet published a complete lead service line inventory. This means the company is still in the process of locating and documenting which homes may have lead pipes. The status of their replacement plan and specific pipe counts are not yet publicly available.
Lead service lines are a real concern. When water sits in lead pipes overnight or for hours, lead can leach into your drinking water. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to lead's effects on development. Older homes (built before the 1980s) are more likely to have lead service lines, though they can exist in any era.
What you can do now
Contact your utility directly. YORK WATER CO can tell you:
- Whether your property has a lead service line
- The results of water testing at your meter
- Timeline for any pipe replacement work
- Whether you qualify for cost-sharing programs
Reduce exposure in the meantime. If you suspect or know you have a lead service line:
- Let tap water run for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (flushes stagnant water from the line)
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking
- Ask your pediatrician about lead testing for children under 6
- Contact the CDC for health questions
Check for federal funding. Your state may have received money from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help replace lead lines. Ask YORK WATER CO whether you can apply.
Next steps for residents
- Call or visit YORK WATER CO's website to request your property's lead service line status.
- If you have children under 6, discuss lead screening with your pediatrician.
- Ask your utility when the full inventory will be available and what replacement timelines they're planning.
- Look into income-based assistance programs—many states offer grants or low-interest loans for homeowners.
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?
Contact YORK WATER CO directly—they have records of service line materials. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home, though the utility's records are usually the fastest way. Homes built before the 1980s are at higher risk.
Is lead in water dangerous for kids?
Yes. Lead exposure can affect brain development and learning, especially in children under 6. Talk to your pediatrician about testing your child and reducing exposure at home. The CDC has detailed guidance on lead and health.
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
First, use cold water for drinking and cooking, and let the tap run 30 seconds before use. Then contact YORK WATER CO to discuss your service line and replacement options. Ask about state and federal funding programs that may cover the cost.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Costs vary but typically range from $3,000 to $25,000 depending on your property. Contact YORK WATER CO about cost-sharing programs, grants, and low-interest loans available through Pennsylvania or federal funding.