ALDERWOOD WATER DISTRICT Lead Service Line Inventory

Alderwood Water District serves approximately 245,715 people across Washington state. If you're connected to this system and concerned about lead in your water, this page explains what's known about lead service lines in the district and what you can do next.

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the public water main underground. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, though they can exist in homes of any age. When water sits in a lead pipe for hours (like overnight), small amounts of lead can leach into the water you drink and use for cooking.

Lead exposure, especially for young children and pregnant people, can cause serious health effects. The CDC and EPA have no safe level of lead in drinking water.

What we know about Alderwood Water District

Alderwood Water District has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in the system. This means the district hasn't provided LeadPipeLookup with data on:

• How many lead service lines exist
• How many non-lead pipes are in service
• How many pipes are still unknown

The district draws water from surface sources (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), which is treated before delivery to homes.

What should you do?

You don't need to wait for a complete inventory to take action. Here's what you can do right now:

Test your water. A simple lab test costs $20–$40 and tells you if lead is present in your tap water. Some water utilities offer free testing—contact your district directly to ask.

Know your home's age. If your house was built before 1986, there's a higher likelihood of a lead service line, though this isn't certain.

Contact the district. Alderwood Water District can tell you whether your specific property has a known or suspected lead service line. They may have partial records even if a full inventory isn't public yet.

Reduce exposure while you wait. Use a certified lead filter (NSF/ANSI 53 certified) on your drinking and cooking water. Let cold water run for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes. Never use hot tap water for drinking or cooking—hot water leaches lead faster.

Next steps for residents

• Contact Alderwood Water District to ask about the lead service line at your address and request a free water test if available
• Have your water tested by a certified lab if you're concerned; results take 1–2 weeks
• Install a point-of-use filter (NSF/ANSI 53 certified) on your tap while awaiting results or a replacement
• Speak with your pediatrician or doctor if you have concerns about lead exposure for children in your home

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```json [ { "q": "Does Alderwood Water District have lead service lines?", "a": "Alderwood Water District has not yet published a complete inventory of lead service lines. The best way to find out if your home has one is to contact the district directly with your address, or request a water test to check for lead." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead pipe?", "a": "Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk. Your water utility may have records of your service line material. You can also have a plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home (it's soft and dull gray), though a water test is the most reliable way to know if lead is actually present." }, { "q": "Is lead in water dangerous for kids?", "a": "Yes. Lead exposure can harm brain development and learning in children. Talk to your pediatrician about your specific situation. The CDC has information on health effects at cdc.gov." }, { "q": "Can I remove lead from my tap water myself?",