SAN ANTONIO WATER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
San Antonio Water System serves about 2.1 million people across the San Antonio area. Like all U.S. water utilities, it is required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs)—the pipes that connect the public water main to individual homes.
What we know right now
As of the latest available data, San Antonio Water System has not yet completed a full lead service line inventory. The utility has not reported the number of lead, galvanized, or non-lead service lines in its system. This doesn't mean there are no lead service lines; it means the identification and cataloging work is still underway.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a direct pathway for lead to enter your home's drinking water. Even low levels of lead exposure can affect children's brain development. If your home was built before 1986—especially before the 1970s—there's a higher chance your service line contains lead or is galvanized steel (which can corrode and leach lead).
The EPA requires all water systems to complete their inventories, and San Antonio Water System is working to meet this deadline.
How to find out about your service line
Your best next step is to contact San Antonio Water System directly. They can tell you:
- Whether your specific address has a known lead service line
- The material of your service line (lead, galvanized, copper, or plastic)
- Whether replacement is planned for your area
They may also offer free or subsidized testing and replacement programs.
What you can do in the meantime
If you're concerned about lead in your drinking water, you don't have to wait for the full inventory:
- Test your water. Many utilities offer free testing; ask when you call.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking. Hot water dissolves lead faster.
- Flush your tap. Let water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before collecting water to drink or cook.
- Clean your aerator. Debris can trap lead particles.
If you have young children or are pregnant, contact your pediatrician or healthcare provider about lead exposure risks.
Next steps for residents
- Call San Antonio Water System to ask about your service line material
- Request free water testing if available
- Ask about lead service line replacement programs or timelines
- Visit the EPA's lead and copper rule page for more information
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does San Antonio have lead in the water?
Lead comes primarily from old service lines connecting homes to the main water pipe, not from the source water itself. San Antonio Water System is still completing its inventory of which homes have lead service lines. Contact the utility directly to learn about your specific address.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call San Antonio Water System and provide your address—they can tell you the material of your service line. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk. A free water test can also show whether lead is present at your tap.
Is it safe to drink tap water in San Antonio?
San Antonio treats its water to meet federal safety standards. However, if you have an old lead service line, lead can enter your water at home. The utility can help you determine your risk and explore testing or replacement options.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead and my kids?
Contact your pediatrician—they can advise on testing and risk. While waiting, use cold tap water for drinking and cooking, and let water run for 30 seconds before collecting it. Ask San Antonio Water System about free testing and replacement programs.