LANCASTER COUNTY W&SD Lead Service Line Inventory
What you need to know
LANCASTER COUNTY W&SD serves about 79,107 people in South Carolina. The utility draws its water from surface sources (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
As of now, the utility has not completed a lead service line inventory. This means the full picture of how many lead pipes may be in the system is still unknown.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is the underground pipe that connects your home to the water main under the street. Lead pipes were common in older homes and neighborhoods, particularly those built before the 1980s. Water sitting in lead pipes can pick up lead, especially if your water is acidic or if water sits unused for hours.
Not all homes in a water system have lead service lines—it depends on when your house was built, where you live, and what pipes were installed. That's why utilities are required by federal law to inventory their systems and tell residents what they find.
What happens next?
The EPA requires all water utilities to complete a lead service line inventory by October 2024. LANCASTER COUNTY W&SD is still working on this. Once the inventory is done, the utility must make it public so you can find out if your home's service line contains lead.
In the meantime, if you're concerned about your home, you can:
- Contact the utility directly to ask if your specific address has a known lead service line.
- Get your water tested through the utility or a certified lab.
- Use a filter certified for lead removal if you want added protection while waiting for the inventory.
Next steps for residents
- Reach out to LANCASTER COUNTY W&SD and ask about your home's service line status.
- Request a copy of the lead service line inventory once it's completed.
- Visit the EPA's lead in drinking water page for testing and treatment options.
- Contact your local health department if you have questions about water safety.
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 home has a lead service line?
Contact LANCASTER COUNTY W&SD directly with your address. They can check their records or completed inventory. If you want to be certain, a plumber can also inspect the pipe where it enters your home.
Is lead in drinking water dangerous?
Lead exposure, especially for children and pregnant women, can harm development and health. For specific health concerns, talk to your doctor or pediatrician, or contact the CDC's lead information line at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
What should I do right now if I'm worried about lead?
Run your tap water cold for 30 seconds before drinking, use cold water for cooking, and consider getting your water tested. Boiling water does not remove lead. Water filters certified for lead removal can help reduce exposure.
Will the utility replace my lead service line?
Federal law requires utilities to replace lead service lines, but timelines vary. Once LANCASTER COUNTY W&SD finishes its inventory, it must create a replacement plan. Contact the utility to ask about their timeline and any assistance programs.