Water Utility

The Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) serves the Greater Philadelphia region by providing integrated water, wastewater and stormwater services.

Non-lead Service Lines

If your service line is categorized as “non-lead”, it is likely made of plastic or copper. These materials are commonly used because they do not contain lead. Materials can include: Plastic Plastic is typically a less expensive option. Plastic service lines are not associated with increased risk of lead. Copper Copper is used in most service […]

Unknown Service Lines

Hundreds of thousands of properties in Philadelphia have an unknown section of buried service line. What to do if you service line is categorized as ‘Unknown’ If the overall category for your line is “unknown”, you should act as though it may contain lead. This guidance is a precaution for your health and safety. 1. […]

Lead Service Lines

Lead was used in the past because it is soft and can be bent. Lead service line installation decreased after the 1950s as harmful health effects became clear. What to do if your service line is categorized as ‘Lead’  If your service line is categorized as lead, here’s what to do: Questions? Contact: ServceLineMap@phila.gov or (215) 683‑6300.

Galvanized Steel Service Lines

Galvanized steel pipes can corrode. Over decades, any lead from a property’s plumbing can accumulate on the corroded walls of galvanized pipes. What to do if you service line is categorized as ‘Galvanized’ If your overall service line material is classified as “Galvanized” you should act as though it may contain lead: Questions? Contact: ServceLineMap@phila.gov […]

Checking your service line

Philadelphia has never had water mains made of lead, but the service line bringing water from the main to your property may contain lead. You can check the portion of your service line that enters your property at your water meter. Buried sections of service lines may contain different materials, if one portion was replaced. Find […]

Schools & Childcares Interest Form

Let us know if you’re interested the PWD Schools & Childcares Lead Sampling Program All items marked with an asterisk (*) are required fields. If you have any questions, or to fill out the survey over the phone, please call (215) 685-1407. Estimated time to complete: 1 minute

Service Line Material Map

Use this map to see our records of materials in your water service line. Learn what you should do based on your material. Residential water service lines in Philadelphia are owned entirely by the property owner. Service line map questions & feedback Report your service line material

Service Line Identification Home Inspections

Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) crews may knock on your door to check if your water service line is made of lead. Confirming the material of service lines helps our efforts to share accurate information with homeowners and residents across Philadelphia. Work will begin in July 2024 and is expected to last through October 2024. Inspections will take place on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. […]

Schools & Childcares Basic Info Form

Complete your registration for the PWD Schools & Childcares Lead Sampling Program All items marked with an asterisk (*) are required fields. If you have any questions, or to fill out the survey over the phone, please call (215) 685-1407. Estimated time to complete: 5-10 minutes

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