SMITHFIELD WATER SUPPLY BOARD Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
Smithfield Water Supply Board serves approximately 9,460 people in Rhode Island. The system draws from surface water sources.
Lead Service Line Inventory Status
As of now, Smithfield Water Supply Board has not yet completed a public inventory of lead service lines in its distribution system. This does not mean there are no lead service lines—it means the utility has not yet surveyed and documented them.
Under the federal Lead and Copper Rule, all water systems must eventually complete and make public an inventory of lead service lines. This process takes time and involves reviewing utility records, field inspections, and sometimes testing. Many systems across the country are still in progress.
What This Means for You
If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line (the pipe connecting the main water line to your house) contains lead. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially from newer plumbing or when water is corrosive.
Your water system should be able to tell you:
- Whether your specific address has a known lead service line
- Whether they've tested the line or have historical records
- What steps they recommend (flushing, filters, or replacement)
Even if your service line is not lead, your home's interior plumbing might contain lead-bearing solder or brass fittings.
Protecting Your Family Now
- Flush your pipes. If water has not been used for 6+ hours, run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking.
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking. Hot water leaches lead faster than cold.
- Consider a filter. NSF-certified pitchers or faucet filters rated for lead reduction work while you wait for service line replacement.
- Test your water (or ask your utility about free testing programs).
For health concerns—especially if you have young children or pregnant family members—contact your pediatrician or the CDC's lead hotline: 1-800-424-LEAD.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact Smithfield Water Supply Board directly and ask for your service line status and any available water quality data.
- Request a copy of their lead service line inventory timeline if one exists.
- Ask whether they offer free or subsidized water testing.
- If you suspect a lead line, get a professional plumber's assessment for replacement options and costs.
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 I have a lead service line?
Contact your water utility with your address; they should have records from installation or inspections. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home—lead is soft and gray, and a magnet won't stick to it. Some utilities offer free testing.
Is it safe to drink tap water if there might be a lead line?
Flushing your pipes before drinking, using cold water only, and installing an NSF-certified lead filter significantly reduce risk. The CDC recommends testing your water and consulting a pediatrician if you have young children.
What is a lead service line?
It's the pipe that runs from the public water main under the street to your home's water meter. Homes built before the 1980s often have lead lines. Lead can dissolve into water over time, especially if the water is corrosive or water sits in pipes overnight.
Does my water system have to replace lead service lines?
Yes, under federal law utilities must eventually replace lead service lines, but timelines vary. Contact your water system to ask about their replacement program, funding, and whether you qualify for assistance.