What is a service line?

The service line connects the water main to the property. The water utility owns the public portion of the service line between the main and the curb stop, and the customer owns the private portion of the service line between the curb stop and the water meter.

Lead Service Line Replacement Program

The Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program proactively removes public and private water service lines made of lead and galvanized steel. Galvanized water service lines can absorb lead particles. Replacement will prioritize historically underserved communities and take into account other city construction projects. 

Is there lead in Columbus' water? No lead is detected in the water leaving Columbus' water treatment plants. Through our partnership with Columbus Public Health, we can confidently say the main source of lead exposure in Columbus is not tap water, it's lead paint.

• Only lead and galvanized water service lines will be replaced.
• Columbus effectively treats drinking water to prevent lead from entering water through plumbing materials. 
• Drinking water is not the main source of lead exposure in Columbus-paint is. The city has multiple programs currently addressing lead paint. 
• The city has been removing lead water service lines since 1996 during maintenance and emergency repairs. 
• Columbus has not allowed the installation of lead and galvanized water service lines since December 1963. 
• Residents will be notified when service line replacement is scheduled for their area.
• A work agreement must be signed by the property owner to participate in the program.

What is a water service line?

Your water service line is the pipe that connects a home or business to the public water main. The water service line is divided into two sections; a city-owned part and a customer-owned part. These parts can be made of different materials. You can see the materials of the city and customer portions in our inventory. Click to view the city inventory of service line materials.

How much will replacement cost?

Columbus intends to cover the cost of a one-time replacement of eligible water service lines as long as funding remains. Replacement cost ranges from $6,000-$10,000 per property. New water service lines add value to your home. 

What will be replaced? 

Public and private side lead and galvanized water service lines will be replaced. Lead-free copper will replace lead and galvanized lines. The Department of Public Utilities cannot replace any lead hazards in the home; however, the Department of Development or Columbus Public Health may be able to assist you with other lead sources in your home. 

How will my water service line be replaced? 

There are two replacement techniques designed to minimize digging and disruption to surrounding property; directional boring and pull-through techniques. In areas where the current line has interference, such as a tree, it may be possible to move around the object with directional boring. Water service lines will be installed without digging large trenches unless the contractor determines trenchless methods are not possible. Click to see examples of replacement techniques. 

Does my home or building have a lead or galvanized water service line?

If your property is within the City of Columbus and your water service line was installed after 1964, then you likely do not have a lead or galvanized water service line. A galvanized line is made of steel. If a galvanized water line is downstream of a lead line, it may have absorbed lead particles and must be replaced.

Search your address in our service line inventory to check the material of public and private side water service lines.

Is your line "unknown?" Take a picture of your water service line and share it with the Department of Public Utilities through a quick online submission form here. Please take a picture with good lighting of the very first piece of material coming out of your wall or floor.