What is a lead water service line?

A lead water service line is the underground pipe that connects a home or building to the public water main and delivers drinking water into the property. In older homes, this pipe was sometimes made of lead, which can corrode over time and allow lead to leach into the water supply. Replacing lead service lines helps protect water quality, meet current safety standards, and reduce health risks.

Why Lead and Galvanized Service Lines Are a Concern?

Lead service lines are a concern because lead can leach into drinking water as pipes age, corrode, or are disturbed. Even low levels of lead exposure can pose health risks, especially for children, pregnant women, and older adults. Because lead does not break down over time, replacing lead service lines is the most effective way to permanently reduce the risk of lead contamination in drinking water.

Galvanized service lines are also a concern, even though they are not made entirely of lead. These pipes are steel coated with zinc and were commonly installed in older homes. Over time, galvanized pipes can corrode, restrict water flow, and trap lead particles—especially if they were ever connected to a lead service line. Once contaminated, galvanized pipes can continue to release lead into the water, which is why they are now recommended for replacement alongside lead service lines.

Replacing both lead and galvanized service lines improves water quality, restores proper water pressure, and helps ensure compliance with modern health and safety standards.

Who Is Responsible for Replacing the Service Line?

In Braintree, the water service line is typically divided into two sections:

• Public side: from the water main in the street to the curb stop.

• Private side: from the curb stop into the home.

The Town of Braintree is responsible for replacing the public portion of the service line. Homeowners are responsible for replacing the private portion that serves their home.

We help homeowners understand where the private line begins, confirm the pipe material, and handle the replacement of the private side when needed.

How to Check If Your Home Has a Lead (or Galvanized) Service Line?

You can check city's map by clicking on the big green button at the top or, if you missed it, please click on the link below:

Braintree Water Service Line Inventory

Not sure what your home’s records mean?

Do not worry - we offer free inspections to help homeowners confirm their service line material.