ST ALBANS WATER Lead Service Line Inventory

ST ALBANS WATER serves approximately 13,758 residents in West Virginia. This page explains what we know about lead service lines in this water system and where to find more information.

What is a lead service line?

A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the public water main buried under the street. If your home was built before 1986—especially before the 1970s—there's a meaningful chance your service line contains lead. Lead doesn't rust or corrode quickly, so old lines can remain in the ground for over a century.

Water flowing through a lead service line can pick up lead, especially if the water is corrosive or if the line has been disturbed. Even small amounts of lead in drinking water can pose health risks, particularly to young children and pregnant people.

What do we know about this water system's lead service lines?

ST ALBANS WATER has not yet published a public lead service line inventory. This means the utility has not disclosed how many lead, galvanized, or unknown service lines serve this system—or whether a replacement plan is in place.

West Virginia utilities are required to complete lead service line inventories and develop replacement plans under federal Lead and Copper Rule requirements and state regulations. If your utility has not yet released this information, you have the right to ask for it.

How to find out if your home has a lead service line

Contact ST ALBANS WATER directly. Request information about your property's service line material. The utility may have records, or they may need to send someone to inspect the line where it enters your home or at the meter.

If the utility cannot confirm the material, assume the line could contain lead if your home was built before 1986. You can also:

• Check your home's age and original plumbing records
• Look at the pipe visible in your basement or crawlspace (lead is soft, dull gray, and leaves a mark if you gently scrape it with a key)
• Hire a licensed plumber to inspect for you

Protecting your family while you investigate

Until you confirm your service line is lead-free, use cold tap water for drinking and cooking—never hot tap water. Let cold water run for 30 seconds before filling a glass. If you're concerned about your family's lead exposure, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC.

Next steps for residents

• Call ST ALBANS WATER and ask: "Do you have records of my service line material? When will you publish your lead service line inventory?"
• Request a free water test from the utility if you suspect lead in your line
• Have your water tested by a certified lab if you're concerned (utilities can provide a list)
• Consult your pediatrician if you have young children or are pregnant and worried about lead exposure

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