BGWC I-20 Lead Service Line Inventory
BGWC I-20 is a small public water system serving approximately 6,637 people in South Carolina. Like all US water systems, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes—and share that information with customers.
What you need to know
Lead service lines can leach lead into drinking water, especially in homes with acidic water or when pipes are disturbed. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development and learning. If you live in the BGWC I-20 service area and are concerned about lead in your tap water, taking action now is the best approach.
This water system has not yet completed or publicly shared a lead service line inventory. This doesn't mean your home definitely has a lead service line—it means the data isn't available yet for customers to check.
How to find out if your home has a lead service line
Contact BGWC I-20 directly. Ask for:
- Whether your property has a lead service line, galvanized service line, or copper service line
- A copy of their lead service line inventory, once available
- Any available water quality reports (called Consumer Confidence Reports)
You can also:
- Check your property records or home inspection documents
- Ask your plumber to inspect the service line at your meter or where it enters your home (lead pipes are soft, gray, and leave a mark if scratched with a coin)
- Have your tap water tested by a certified lab if you want to know current lead levels
What happens next
Federal rules require water systems to complete lead service line inventories and create replacement plans. Check back with BGWC I-20 periodically for updates, or contact them to ask about their timeline.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility at BGWC I-20 and ask about your service line material and their inventory status
- Get your water tested by a state-certified lab if you're concerned about lead levels in your home
- Learn about treatment options like point-of-use filters (pitcher or faucet filters certified for lead removal) while waiting for inventory results
- Check the CDC website for guidance on reducing lead exposure, especially if children under 6 live in your home
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 BGWC I-20 and ask what material your service line is made of. You can also hire a plumber to inspect it at your meter, or look at your home inspection report. Lead pipes are soft, dull gray, and leave a mark if you gently scratch them with a coin.
Is it dangerous to drink water from a lead service line?
Lead can leach into drinking water from lead pipes, especially if your water is acidic. The CDC recommends testing your tap water and considering a filter certified for lead removal while you wait for your utility's inventory results. For health concerns, talk to your doctor or pediatrician.
When will BGWC I-20 replace lead service lines?
Federal law requires water systems to create replacement plans, but timelines vary. Contact BGWC I-20 to ask about their replacement schedule and funding. Many systems are receiving federal grants to help pay for replacements.
Can I get my water tested for lead?
Yes. Contact your local health department or search for a state-certified lab in South Carolina. A basic lead test costs $20–50 and tells you if lead is present in your tap water.