Lead Service Line Inventory for ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS

ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS serves about 13,900 residents in Wisconsin. Like many US water systems, it uses surface water as its primary source.

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the pipe that carries water from the main water line under the street into your home. If your home was built before 1986—especially between 1900 and 1950—there's a meaningful chance your service line contains lead. Lead pipes were common and inexpensive then. They're no longer installed in new construction, but millions remain in use across the country.

Lead can leach into drinking water, particularly from newer pipes or when water is corrosive. The EPA and CDC both recommend testing if you're unsure, especially if you have children under 6 or pregnant women in the home.

What does ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS know about lead service lines?

ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in its system. This doesn't mean there are no lead lines—it means the water utility is still in the process of mapping them.

Under the federal Lead and Copper Rule, all water systems must identify and inventory lead service lines. Systems are working on different timelines, depending on their size and resources. Smaller systems like ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS often complete inventories later than larger urban utilities.

How to find out about your own line

Your water utility can tell you:

• Whether your service line is lead, copper, galvanized steel, or plastic
• Whether the meter and connections are lead-free
• How old your home is and what materials were typical in your neighborhood

Contact ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS directly to ask about your address. Many utilities can look up records by street or property. If records are unclear, a licensed plumber can inspect your meter and line for you.

What to do if you have a lead service line

If your line is lead or unknown composition, the safest long-term solution is replacement. Some utilities offer rebates or cost-sharing programs. In the short term, you can reduce exposure by:

• Running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking (especially first thing in the morning)
• Using only cold water for cooking and baby formula
• Testing your water if you have young children or are pregnant

For health concerns, contact your doctor or the CDC's hotline.

Next steps for residents

• Contact your water utility directly with your address to request information about your service line.
• If you have young children or are pregnant, consider getting your water tested; your utility can provide a certified lab.
• Ask about replacement programs or financial assistance if your line is confirmed lead.
• Check back periodically with ALLOUEZ WATERWORKS as they complete their inventory.

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