Lead Service Lines in Greenwood, South Carolina
About Greenwood CPW's Lead Service Line Inventory
Greenwood CPW serves approximately 52,022 people in South Carolina. Like all water systems in the US, the utility is required to identify and track lead service lines—the pipes that may connect the public water main to your home.
Current inventory status: Greenwood CPW has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. As of now, no data on the number of lead, galvanized, or non-lead pipes has been publicly reported.
This doesn't mean your home is safe or unsafe—it means the utility is still in the process of mapping its pipes. Many systems nationwide are at this stage, especially smaller utilities.
Why This Matters
Lead service lines are one of the most common sources of lead in drinking water. If your home was built before the 1980s, or if you live in an older neighborhood, there's a higher statistical chance your connection contains lead or galvanized steel (which can corrode and release lead).
Lead exposure, even at low levels, can affect children's brain development. The CDC recommends testing your water if you have young children or are pregnant.
What You Can Do Now
Get your water tested. This is the only way to know if lead is present in your tap water right now. Greenwood CPW or your local health department can direct you to certified labs. Testing typically costs $20–50.
Flush your pipes. If water sits in pipes overnight, lead levels can rise. Run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking each morning.
Ask Greenwood CPW directly. Contact the utility to ask:
- Whether your specific address has a known lead service line
- When the utility expects to complete its inventory
- Whether you qualify for any replacement assistance programs
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is funding lead line replacements nationwide. Even if no funding has been announced yet for Greenwood CPW, stay in touch with the utility—more programs may become available.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact Greenwood CPW to ask about your service line and any available testing or replacement programs.
- Get your water tested through a certified lab if you haven't already.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking; run the tap in the morning.
- Check the CDC website for health guidance if you're concerned about lead exposure.
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 Greenwood CPW with your address; they can tell you based on records or inspection. You can also look at the pipe where it enters your home (lead is soft, dull gray, and easily scratched), but a utility inspection is more reliable. Water testing is the only way to know if lead is actually in your tap water.
Is the water in Greenwood safe to drink?
Greenwood CPW treats water to meet federal safety standards. However, lead can enter water through pipes after treatment. Get your water tested if you're concerned, especially if your home is older or you have young children.
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
Run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using it, use bottled water for drinking and cooking in the short term, and contact Greenwood CPW about replacement options or assistance programs. For health concerns, consult your pediatrician or the CDC.
Does Greenwood CPW offer to replace lead service lines for free?
Contact the utility directly to ask about replacement programs and eligibility. Funding is becoming available through state and federal programs, but details vary by system and location.