Lead Service Line Inventory

Initial Inventory Development

Developing a lead service line inventory begins with looking at known historical records such as tap cards, line replacement records, plumbing codes, and ordinances. Using existing records helps establish the known service lines within a community and gives focus to lead service line inventory projects to investigate unknown lines. 

In-home Inspections

In-home inspections involve canvassing the community, with inspectors going door-to-door to access and evaluate customer service lines. Though residents may choose not to have their lines inspected, this approach is cost-effective, allows for broad outreach, and requires minimal equipment. Also, residents may opt to evaluate their own lines by completing and submitting self-surveys.

Officials conducting in-home inspections should be sure to notify the community before canvassing efforts begin. This will raise awareness of the project, allow customers the opportunity to self-identify lines, and improve verification rates. All outreach materials should provide an opportunity for customers to self-identify lines. Communities may also consider providing incentives for residents to complete surveys or allow for in-home inspections. 

Potholing

Potholing is a soft digging technique used to access and inspect water service lines near the curb stop or water meter. Though potholing can be time-consuming and more costly than in-home inspections, this method allows for the inspection of both the utility and customer sides of the service line. Since this method also gives inspectors the ability to access water lines without having to go inside a house or building, potholing promotes higher rates of verification for lead service line inventories.