KINGSPORT WATER DEPT Lead Service Line Inventory
Kingsport Water Dept serves approximately 107,739 people in Tennessee. Like all US water utilities, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs)—the pipes that connect the public water main to individual homes.
What we know about Kingsport's inventory
Kingsport Water Dept has not yet published detailed inventory data publicly. This means we don't have confirmed counts of how many lead, galvanized, or non-lead service lines exist in the system. The utility is still building or organizing this information.
The federal requirement to create and maintain an LSL inventory came into full effect in 2021. Utilities are required to share this data with customers and regulators, though the timeline and format vary.
Why this matters for your home
If your house was built before the 1980s, there's a meaningful chance your service line contains lead. Lead pipes can leach lead into drinking water, especially in homes with acidic water or new plumbing work. Even "low levels" of exposure carry health risks that compound over time, particularly for young children and pregnant people.
You don't need to wait for your utility's inventory to take action. You can:
- Contact Kingsport Water Dept directly and ask about your property's service line material. They may have records even if the full inventory isn't public.
- Request a water test from the utility or a certified lab to measure lead levels in your tap water.
- Check your home's age and construction records. Older homes are higher risk.
If your water tests high for lead, point-of-use filters (like certain pitcher or faucet filters) can reduce exposure while you arrange longer-term solutions. For guidance on which filters work, see NSF International's database.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Kingsport Water Dept (PWSID: TN0000349) and ask for information about your service line material.
- Request a lead water test through the utility or a certified lab.
- Learn more from the CDC's lead in water guidance or speak with your pediatrician if you have children under 6.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Kingsport have lead in the water?
Kingsport Water Dept's full lead service line inventory has not been published yet. The best way to know if your home is at risk is to contact the utility directly and ask about your property's service line material, or request a water test.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact Kingsport Water Dept and ask them to check their records for your address. You can also hire a licensed plumber to inspect the service line where it enters your home, or request a lead water test to see if lead is leaching into your tap water.
Is lead in drinking water dangerous?
Yes. Lead exposure has no safe level, especially for young children and pregnant people. For health concerns, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC; for water safety steps, contact your utility or a certified lab.
What should I do if I think I have a lead service line?
First, request a water test to measure actual lead levels in your tap water. If levels are elevated, use a certified lead-reducing filter while you plan a replacement. Contact Kingsport Water Dept about replacement programs or funding options.