- Home
- Water Quality
- Lead Reduction Program
Lead Reduction Program
Wilmington Water is committed to reducing lead exposure in drinking water in accordance with the EPA’s revised Lead and Copper Rule (LCRR). Our service line inventory is now live, and we are actively identifying all water service lines on both public and private property.
Service Line Notification Letters
EPA regulations require all water systems to identify and inventory the service lines that connect homes and businesses to the public water main. This work helps water utilities understand and manage any potential risks from lead in drinking water.
As part of these requirements, Wilmington Water must send annual notices to customers if their service line is made of lead or galvanized material, or if the material has not yet been identified (listed as “unknown”). These notifications also provide information about potential health risks and precautionary steps you can take.
If you received a letter from Wilmington Water, it means that a portion of your service line is lead, galvanized, or currently classified as unknown. It is important to know that having a lead, galvanized, or unknown service line does not mean you have been exposed to lead. Wilmington Water uses corrosion control treatment that significantly reduces the likelihood of lead entering your drinking water, and the system has consistently met all EPA regulations.
- What is Lead?
-
Lead is a harmful metal found naturally in the environment. It can be dangerous if breathed in or swallowed and is present in air, soil, dust, food, and water.
- Why is Lead a Health Risk?
-
Lead poses a health risk because it's a toxic metal that can have immediate and long-term effects on the body. High doses of lead can cause immediate harm, while prolonged exposure over time can lead to serious health issues. Lead can damage the brain, kidneys, blood, and vitamin D metabolism.
Pregnant women and young children are especially vulnerable to lead exposure because their bodies are more sensitive to its effects. Even low levels of exposure in children can result in damage to the nervous system, learning disabilities, stunted growth, hearing problems, and blood cell issues.
Although lead exposure commonly occurs through sources like paint, soil, and dust, drinking water can also be a significant source, especially for infants who consume formula mixed with lead-contaminated water.
- When Was Lead Used in Plumbing Materials?
-
Nationally
Lead and lead-containing materials were allowed in municipal and household plumbing until 1986 nationwide. The U.S. Congress amended the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1986 to prohibit pipes, solder, or flux that were not "lead-free." This meant solder and flux with no more than 0.2% lead and pipes with no more than 8% lead were considered "lead-free." In 2014, the maximum allowable lead content was further reduced to not more than a weighted average of 0.25% of the wetted surface of pipes, fittings, and fixtures. Click here to read more on the EPA's Lead Laws and Regulations.
In Wilmington’s Water System
In Wilmington's water system, homes built before 1988 may have lead water service lines, although their use could extend beyond this date. These homes might also contain lead in brass plumbing fixtures or lead solder used to connect copper pipes. Homes built after 1988 are less likely to have plumbing fixtures or solder-containing lead.
- How Does Lead Get into Drinking Water?
-
Lead does not naturally exist in Wilmington's drinking water when it leaves our treatment plant or travels through our water mains. However, in older homes, lead may be present in the pipes that connect the home to the water system, known as service lines, or in-home plumbing such as valves, fittings, and faucets. Lead from these sources can dissolve into the water or leach into it as particles, ending up at the tap.
- Is Water the Only Source of Lead Exposure?
-
No, water is not the only source of lead exposure. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lead in drinking water typically accounts for only about 10% to 20% of total exposure. However, in children, drinking water can contribute to over half of their lead exposure due to their lower body weight. Because no level of lead is considered safe, it's strongly recommended that people completely eliminate potential sources of lead exposure whenever possible.
Contact Us
If you suspect lead, Contact Us to schedule an appointment with the City to review your survey results. If a lead service line is identified, you will be notified, and we will assist you in reducing lead exposure.
Additional Information
For more information on lead exposure and reduction, visit the EPA's webpage on Lead Information.
Health Effects of Lead
Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems or worsen existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these negative health effects. Adults can have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney, or nervous system problems.