HENRICO COUNTY WATER SYSTEM Lead Service Line Inventory
Henrico County Water System serves about 330,000 people in Virginia. Like all US water utilities, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that carry water from the street to individual homes.
What we know about Henrico County's lead pipes
We do not yet have detailed information about how many lead service lines are in Henrico County's system, or what percentage of homes may be affected. The utility has not published a publicly available inventory summary on LeadPipeLookup.
This does not mean there are no lead pipes in the system. Lead service lines were common in much of the US, especially in older neighborhoods built before the 1980s. Without published data, residents cannot know for certain whether their home has one.
Why this matters
Lead can leach into drinking water, especially in homes with older pipes or corrosive water. Even small amounts of lead exposure over time can affect children's development and learning. Adults can also be affected, though typically at higher exposure levels.
The good news: lead in water is preventable and detectable. A simple test can tell you if your tap water contains lead, and steps exist to reduce risk while you work toward a permanent fix.
What Henrico County residents should do now
Contact your utility directly. Henrico County Water System has records about your service line—the pipe buried between the street and your house. They can tell you whether it's lead, and if they don't know yet, when they expect to have that information.
Get your water tested. A basic lead test costs $20–50 and takes 1–2 weeks. Your water utility may offer free or subsidized testing. Call them to ask.
If you have young children or are pregnant, consult your pediatrician or OB-GYN about your situation. The CDC also has guidance on lead and health.
Replacing a lead service line typically costs $3,000–$25,000, depending on yard conditions and local labor. Ask your utility about replacement programs, grants, or loans—many communities now offer help with costs.
Next steps for residents
- Call Henrico County Water System and ask: "Do I have a lead service line? If you don't know, when will you have that information?"
- Request a free or low-cost lead test for your tap water
- If you have young children, discuss results with your pediatrician
- Ask about utility programs or local/state funding for pipe replacement
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 I have a lead service line?
Your water utility keeps records of what material your service line is made from. Call Henrico County Water System and give them your address—they can tell you if it's lead, copper, or another material. If records are incomplete, ask when they'll have that information.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Yes, lead can harm health, especially in children and pregnant people. The CDC recommends testing water if you're concerned. There is no safe level of lead exposure, so take it seriously—but many steps can reduce risk while you work on permanent solutions.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement typically costs $3,000–$25,000 depending on yard conditions and local labor costs. Many water utilities and states now offer grants or low-interest loans to help. Ask Henrico County Water System what programs are available to you.
What can I do right now if I have a lead service line?
Use a point-of-use filter certified for lead (look for NSF/ANSI 53), flush your pipes before drinking or cooking, and get your water tested. These steps reduce exposure while you plan for pipe replacement. Contact your utility about long-term replacement options.