KNOXVILLE UTILITIES BOARD - KUB Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) serves approximately 254,671 people in Tennessee. The system draws from surface water sources. Like all public water systems in the US, KUB is required by federal law to identify and track lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water system—and to share that information with customers.
What We Know About Lead Service Lines at KUB
KUB has not yet published a detailed inventory of lead service lines in a format that LeadPipeLookup can display. This means either the system is still in the process of mapping its pipes, or the data isn't publicly available yet. Lead service lines are a real concern—water flowing through them can pick up lead, which poses health risks especially to young children and pregnant people.
This does not mean KUB's water is unsafe. Many systems use corrosion control treatments to prevent lead from leaching into water even when service lines are made of lead. However, you deserve to know whether your home has a lead service line.
How to Find Out About Your Home
Your best option is to contact KUB directly. You can ask:
- Whether your address has a lead service line
- What treatment steps KUB uses to reduce lead
- Whether they have a timeline for publishing their full inventory
- What you can do to reduce lead exposure at home (like flushing lines and using filters)
KUB's customer service team can often pull records about your specific connection faster than waiting for a public inventory.
If You're Concerned About Lead in Your Water
A simple first step is to have your water tested. The EPA recommends testing if your home was built before 1986 or if you have visible corrosion on pipes. Many health departments offer low-cost or free testing kits.
For health questions—especially if you have young children—contact your pediatrician or the CDC's lead hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact KUB at their customer service line to ask about your home's service line material and request information about their inventory timeline
- Test your water if you live in an older home or notice discolored water or staining around pipes
- Consult your pediatrician if you have health concerns, particularly about children under 6 years old
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Knoxville have lead pipes?
KUB has not yet published a detailed public inventory of lead service lines. Some homes built before 1986 may have lead service lines, but the only way to know about your home is to contact KUB directly or have your water tested.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Knoxville?
KUB treats its water to meet federal safety standards. However, if your home has a lead service line, the pipe itself can be a source of lead. Contact KUB to learn about your specific address and what you can do to reduce risk.
How do I find out if my house has a lead service line?
Call KUB customer service and provide your address. They can often tell you the material of your service line. You can also have your water tested to check for lead, which is a simple and affordable step.
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
Contact your pediatrician or local health department for health guidance. Ask KUB about corrosion control measures and whether they recommend a water filter certified to reduce lead. Many filters can lower lead levels if used properly.