MEMPHIS LIGHT, GAS, & WATER Lead Service Line Inventory
Memphis Light, Gas, & Water serves approximately 659,500 residents across the Memphis area in Tennessee. The utility draws water from groundwater sources.
Lead Service Line Inventory Status
As of now, Memphis Light, Gas, & Water has not yet published a complete inventory of lead service lines in its system. Federal law requires all water systems to identify which homes are connected to the water main through lead pipes—called lead service lines—and to make that information public by October 2024. If you don't see an inventory available yet, the utility is still working to compile and verify this data.
Why Lead Service Lines Matter
A lead service line is the pipe that carries water from the public water main into your home. If that pipe is made of lead, some lead can dissolve into your drinking water, especially if the water is corrosive or if water sits unused in the pipe for hours. Lead exposure, even at low levels, can affect children's development and learning. Replacing a lead service line is the only way to fully eliminate this risk from that source.
What You Can Do Now
Contact your water utility. Call or email Memphis Light, Gas, & Water and ask:
- Whether your service line is lead, galvanized (which can also contain lead), or another material
- Whether they have a replacement program or financial assistance
- When you can expect to see the full public inventory
If you're concerned about lead in your tap water right now, a simple first step is to let water run from the cold-water tap for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking. This flushes out water that may have been sitting in pipes overnight.
If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your pediatrician or OB-GYN about whether a water test makes sense for your home.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact Memphis Light, Gas, & Water to ask about your home's service line material
- Check back on this page for updates as the utility completes its inventory
- Visit the EPA's website for guidance on reducing lead exposure at home
- If you suspect health concerns, consult your doctor or contact the Tennessee Department of Health
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 house has a lead service line?
Contact Memphis Light, Gas, & Water directly with your address. They can tell you what material your service line is made of. You can also check if your home was built before the 1950s—lead pipes were common then, though not all old homes have them.
Is lead in Memphis water dangerous?
Lead service lines are the main pathway for lead to enter tap water. If you have one, it's worth replacing. Talk to your doctor about your family's specific risk, especially if you have children under 6 or are pregnant.
Can I get financial help to replace a lead service line?
Many utilities offer rebates or financing programs. Contact Memphis Light, Gas, & Water to ask about their lead line replacement assistance. Federal and state grants may also be available depending on your income.
What should I do while I wait for a replacement?
Let cold water run for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking. Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking—hot water dissolves lead faster. If you want to test your water, your local health department or a certified lab can help.