Lead Service Lines at University of Rhode Island Water System
What you need to know
University of Rhode Island (URI) serves approximately 19,354 people and uses groundwater as its primary water source. Like all US water systems, URI is required by federal law to inventory and report on lead service lines—the pipes that may connect the main water line under the street to your home or building.
Current status: URI has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This doesn't mean lead pipes aren't present; it means the survey work is still underway or hasn't been made public yet.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a significant source of lead in drinking water. If your home was built before the 1980s and is connected to a lead service line, water sitting in those pipes overnight—especially in homes with young children—can accumulate unsafe levels of lead. Even newer homes can have lead solder or brass fixtures that contribute to water contamination.
Federal standards require all water systems to identify which homes have lead service lines and to develop plans to remove them. Knowing whether your home has one is the first step to protecting your family.
How to find out about your home
1. Contact URI directly. Ask whether your service address has a lead service line. Even if their full inventory isn't public, they should be able to check your property record. 2. Ask for your water quality report. Every system publishes an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) that includes lead test results and information about service line replacement efforts. 3. Check your property. If you have access to the area where the water line enters your home or building, you can look for a dull gray or dark pipe (lead is soft and can be scratched with a coin). Copper pipes are reddish-brown; PVC is white or gray plastic.
What URI should be doing
Your water system is required to replace lead service lines over time, prioritize homes with children and pregnant people, and offer financial assistance for property owner costs. Ask URI about their replacement schedule and what funding they've received to accelerate the work.
Next steps for residents
- Contact URI's water department and ask about lead service lines at your address
- Request their latest Consumer Confidence Report to see recent lead test results
- If you have young children or are pregnant, consider testing your water—contact your local health department or visit the CDC website for guidance
- Ask about replacement programs and financial assistance if your home has a lead service line
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 University of Rhode Island's water department with your address—they maintain records of service line materials. You can also visually inspect where the water line enters your home; lead pipes are dull gray and soft enough to scratch with a coin.
Is lead in my water dangerous?
Lead is harmful, especially for young children and pregnant people. For health concerns, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC. Your water utility can tell you if lead has been detected in your area.
Will the water system replace my lead service line?
Yes—federal law requires all utilities to replace lead service lines over time. Contact URI to ask about their replacement timeline, whether your address is prioritized, and what financial help is available to you.
What should I do right now if I'm worried?
Call University of Rhode Island's water department to ask about your specific address. You can also request their annual water quality report, which includes lead testing data. If you have young children, consider having your water tested.