PWCSA - EAST Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
PWCSA - EAST serves 168,747 people in Virginia. The system draws water from surface sources (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs) and delivers it to homes and businesses across its service area.
Like all US water utilities, PWCSA - EAST is required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes. Lead service lines pose a health risk, especially to young children and pregnant people, because lead can leach into drinking water over time.
What We Know About PWCSA - EAST's Inventory
As of now, PWCSA - EAST has not yet inventoried its lead service lines. The utility has not published an inventory on this database, which means we don't have current data on how many lead, galvanized, or non-lead service lines exist in the system.
This doesn't mean the problem doesn't exist—it means the mapping work is still underway or not yet reported. The U.S. EPA requires all water systems to complete their inventories by October 2024, though some utilities have requested extensions.
What This Means for Your Home
If your home was built before 1980, there's a higher statistical likelihood your service line contains lead, since lead pipes were commonly used before regulations restricted their use. Homes built after 1986 are very unlikely to have lead service lines.
The only way to know for sure is to contact PWCSA - EAST directly and ask about your specific address. They may already have records on file or can help you arrange testing of your water.
Health Concerns
Lead exposure through drinking water is a real health risk. If you're concerned about your family's exposure—especially if you have young children in the home—contact your pediatrician or the CDC's lead prevention hotline. They can help you understand your risk and what steps to take.
Reducing Lead Exposure at Home
Even while waiting for the utility's full inventory:
- Run water before drinking: Let water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes in the morning or after long periods of non-use.
- Use cold water: Hot water dissolves lead faster than cold water.
- Test your water: Contact PWCSA - EAST about free or low-cost testing kits.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact PWCSA - EAST directly and ask about the lead service line status at your address.
- Request the utility's lead service line inventory and replacement plan timeline.
- Have your water tested if you have concerns; ask your utility about testing resources.
- Consult your pediatrician if you have young children and want to discuss lead exposure risks.
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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 PWCSA - EAST have lead pipes in my home?
We don't have that information yet. Contact PWCSA - EAST directly with your address, and they can tell you whether your service line is known to be lead, non-lead, or unknown. If it's unknown, you may be able to request testing.
What year were lead pipes banned?
Lead pipes for drinking water were banned in 1986. Homes built before that date are more likely to have lead service lines, though it varies by location and when the home was connected to the water system.
Is my water safe to drink right now?
PWCSA - EAST treats water to reduce lead leaching, but the safest approach is to test your water and run water briefly before drinking if you're in an older home. For health concerns, contact the CDC or your pediatrician.
When will PWCSA - EAST replace lead service lines?
Federal law requires utilities to have an inventory and replacement plan in place, but timelines vary. Contact PWCSA - EAST to ask about their replacement schedule and whether your home qualifies for assistance programs.