CITY OF CHESAPEAKE - WESTERN BRANCH SYS: Lead Service Line Inventory

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the underground pipe that connects your home's water supply to the public water main under the street. If your service line is made of lead, water sitting in that pipe overnight or during the day can pick up lead—a toxic metal that poses serious health risks, especially to young children and pregnant people.

The City of Chesapeake - Western Branch System serves about 32,000 residents in the western branch area. This water system draws from surface water sources.

What we know about this system

The City of Chesapeake - Western Branch System has not yet completed a comprehensive inventory of its lead service lines. This means the utility does not yet have a full picture of how many homes are served by lead lines, galvanized lines, or other pipe materials.

Current inventory status: No service lines have been inventoried and reported.

A complete inventory is the first step toward identifying which homes need priority for pipe replacement. Without this data, individual homeowners cannot know their own service line material unless they contact the utility directly or have the line inspected.

How to find out about your home

Your best option is to contact the City of Chesapeake - Western Branch System directly and ask:

• What material is my service line made of?
• Do you have records or maps showing my address?
• If the material is unknown, what are my options for finding out?

The utility may have older construction records, even if they haven't completed a formal inventory. Some systems can also recommend certified contractors who can inspect your line.

Protecting your water in the meantime

If you don't yet know your service line material:

• Use cold water for drinking and cooking. Hot water dissolves lead more readily.
• Let water run. After the tap has been off for more than 6 hours, run cold water for 15–30 seconds before filling a glass or pot.
• Consider a certified filter (NSF/ANSI Standard 53) if you want added protection. Replace cartridges per manufacturer instructions.

If you have health concerns—especially if a child in your home has elevated lead levels—contact your pediatrician or the CDC.

Next steps for residents

• Contact the City of Chesapeake - Western Branch System to ask about your service line material.
• Request a water quality test if the utility cannot confirm your line type.
• Review CDC guidance on reducing lead exposure at home (cdc.gov/lead).
• Monitor utility announcements about inventory completion and replacement plans.

```json [ { "q": "How do I know if my water has lead in it?", "a": "The only way to know if your water contains lead is to have it tested. You can contact your water utility to ask about free testing programs, or you can hire a certified lab. Lead has no taste, smell, or color, so you cannot detect it without a test." }, { "q": "Is lead service line water safe to drink?", "a": "Lead in drinking water poses health risks, especially to young children and pregnant people. If you suspect your service line is lead, use the steps above (cold water, flushing, filtration) and contact your utility about replacement options." }, { "q": "Who is responsible for replacing the service line—me or the water company?", "a": "Responsibility varies by location and state law. Typically the utility owns the line up to the meter, and the homeowner owns the portion from the meter into the house. Contact your water utility to clarify who pays for replacement in your area." }, { "q": "Will the city replace my lead service line for free?", "a": "Many utilities are developing replacement programs, sometimes with grant or low-interest loan funding. Contact the City of Chesapeake - Western Branch System to ask about current replacement assistance programs or plans." }