Lead Service Lines in Seattle
What you need to know
Seattle Public Utilities serves about 1.16 million people across the city and surrounding areas. Like all U.S. water systems, they are required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs)—pipes that connect the water main to homes and buildings.
A lead service line is a pipe made of lead or lead-based solder that carries water from the street into your home. If you have one, water sitting in the pipe overnight or for several hours can pick up lead, especially in homes built before 1986 when lead pipes were more common.
Seattle's current inventory status
As of now, Seattle Public Utilities has not yet completed a full public inventory of their lead service lines. This doesn't mean they haven't started work—many utilities are still in the data-gathering phase. Without a completed inventory, it's harder for residents to know whether their home has an LSL.
What you can do right now
Contact your water utility directly. Call Seattle Public Utilities' customer service or visit their website to ask:
- Whether your specific address is known to have a lead service line
- What testing or replacement options are available to you
- When they expect to finish and publish their full inventory
Get your water tested. A simple water test (about $20–$50) can tell you if lead is present in your tap water right now. Testing is especially important if you have young children or are pregnant.
Check your home's age and records. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes. If you have old plumbing records or a home inspection report, those may give clues.
Health questions
If you're worried about lead exposure—especially for children under 6—talk to your pediatrician or contact the CDC. Lead is a serious health concern for young children, and a doctor can advise on testing and next steps for your family.
Next steps for residents
- Call Seattle Public Utilities to ask about your address and what they know about LSLs in your area
- Request a water test through your utility or a certified lab to check for lead in your tap water
- Look up your home's age in property records to assess risk level
- Keep an eye on Seattle Public Utilities' website for when they publish their completed LSL inventory
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 my house has a lead service line in Seattle?
Contact Seattle Public Utilities directly and ask about your address. You can also have a plumber inspect the pipe where it enters your home—lead is soft and gray, and a magnet won't stick to it. Water testing will also tell you if lead is getting into your tap water.
Is Seattle water safe to drink?
Seattle's water source is clean, but if you have a lead service line, water can pick up lead as it sits in the pipe. A water test will show if lead is present in your home. Even if lead is detected, using a filter or flushing the tap can help.
What should I do if my child has been drinking water with lead?
Talk to your pediatrician right away. They can order a blood lead test and advise you on next steps. The CDC also offers guidance on lead exposure in children.
When will Seattle replace lead service lines?
Seattle Public Utilities is still completing their inventory and developing a replacement plan. Contact the utility to ask about their timeline and whether you qualify for any assistance programs.