Service Line Replacement Pilot Program Details
The Service Line Replacement Pilot Program replaces lead or galvanized metal water service lines at eligible properties for free.
Why are we doing this pilot?
Water service lines are a potential source of lead
In Philadelphia, lead does not come from our water sources, treatment, or mains that deliver drinking water. If lead is found in water, it comes from a property’s plumbing.
For 30 years, PWD has used corrosion control treatment to effectively prevent lead from dissolving into water. Learn more
Removing service lines further reduces the risk of lead exposure from plumbing.
Expanding our replacement efforts
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends replacing all lead and galvanized metal service lines.
The Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) has a long-standing process to replace, for free, all known or discovered lead and galvanized metal water service lines during planned water main projects. This method is limited to approximately 1% of all City water mains each year.
As part of our mission to keep drinking water safe, we’re exploring new ways to replace more lead and galvanized service lines.
PWD received federal funding to provide free water service line replacements to select areas. We’re doing this work with a limited number of property owners to better understand the experience and cost of providing this service.
When will my service line be replaced?
Pilot phases
The pilot program is rolling out in phases. We’re starting with areas that have high concentrations of lead and galvanized metal service lines in North and West Philadelphia.
Phase 1: North Philadelphia
- Phase 1 will include ZIP codes 19133, 19134, 19140.
- Starting Outreach: June 2026.
- Starting Program: August 2026.
Phase 2: West Philadelphia
- Phase 2 will include ZIP codes 19104, 19131, 19139, 19142, 19143, 19151, 19153.
- Starting: Late 2026.
Future work
We are seeking funding to expand replacements to other areas of the City. If your property has a lead or galvanized metal service line and is not in a Phase 1 or Phase 2 ZIP code, please sign up to express your interest. We will reach out to you if we expand to your neighborhood.
Water main projects
PWD has a long-standing process to replace, for free, all known or discovered lead and galvanized metal water service lines during planned water main projects.
If your street is already scheduled for a planned water main replacement, and you have a confirmed lead or galvanized metal water service line, then you will already receive a free replacement by PWD.
PWD will contact you by mail to sign up shortly before the work is scheduled to begin. Our construction contractors will also attempt to reach you in person once the work has started and if we haven’t heard back from you.
You can also complete the permission form online ahead of time. Complete the permission form →
How the pilot program works
1) Sign up
- Eligible property owners complete the pre‑application and permission forms.
2) Property visit
- A licensed plumber checks how the service line connects to the property during a property visit, approves the property, and plans the replacement.
3) Replacement
- The lead or galvanized service line is replaced, usually in one day (between 4–8 hours).
- Your water service will be turned off temporarily during the work.
- Your assigned plumber will let you know when they are turning it off and when they are turning it back on.
4) Post-replacement actions
- Property owners and tenants receive instructions to follow after replacement.
- Within 30 days of service line replacement, weather permitting, disrupted areas are restored.
Meet the team
PWD Case Manager
PWD’s Case Manager helps guide property owners and tenants through the pilot program.
They can:
- Answer questions about eligibility and next steps.
- Help with forms and paperwork.
- Support communications between property owners, tenants, and contractors.
- Share updates during the process.
Contact
ReplaceServiceLine@phila.gov
(215) 683-8825
Licensed contractors
PWD hires licensed plumbers to do the inspection and replacement work and ensures the quality of the work.
They will:
- Contact you to schedule the property visit and replacement date.
- Inspect the service line and water meter.
- Perform the service line replacement.
- Restore the disturbed area after replacement.
- Provide the materials and instructions you’ll need after replacement.
You
Property owners and renters play an important role in the process.
Property owners:
- Complete the permission form.
- Work with the licensed plumber to schedule the property visit and replacement. You can find a time that works for your schedule.
- Make sure someone 18 years or older is available to provide access to the service line and water meter for the property visit and replacement.
- Follow required instructions after replacement.
- Even though PWD pays for the work, the service line remains the responsibility of the property owner/renter after replacement.
Only the property owner can give permission for the service line to be replaced.
Renters can:
- Share their landlord’s contact information by contacting the Case Manager.
- Share the permission form directly with the property owner by completing the pre‑application form.
- Ask their landlord to sign the permission form.
- Help coordinate access to the property.
Questions or concerns?
Email ReplaceServiceLine@phila.gov or call (215) 683-8825.