Lead Pipe Replacement: More Urgent Than You Think

Lead Service Line Replacement Isn’t Optional, It’s Urgent

If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance the pipes feeding water into it are made of lead. Yes, the same toxic metal we’ve spent decades trying to get rid of from paint, gasoline, and plumbing. The truth? Lead service lines are still buried under thousands of New York homes.

Lead pipe replacement is no longer just a recommendation; it’s becoming a must for homeowners who want to protect their families and their property. The stakes are too high to ignore.

Why Lead Pipes Are Dangerous Even If the Water Looks Fine

One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is: “But my water looks clear.” Unfortunately, lead contamination isn’t always visible. You could be drinking water every day that carries microscopic levels of lead, and it only takes a little to cause serious harm.

Children are especially vulnerable. Even low levels of lead exposure have been linked to developmental delays, behavioral issues, and long-term learning problems. Adults aren’t spared either; lead water pipes can contribute to high blood pressure, kidney issues, and reproductive problems.

This isn’t about panic, it’s about action.

You’re Responsible for the Lead Line on Your Property

Here’s something most homeowners don’t realize: while the city is responsible for part of the line, you’re on the hook for the portion that runs from the curb to your home.

This is known as the private service line, and unless you’re enrolled in a lead line replacement program, that cost and responsibility fall on you.

That’s why changing lead pipes should be on your radar, especially if:

• You live in a house built before 1980
• You’ve never had your lead water service lines inspected
• You’re noticing discolored water or strange tastes
• You have kids, seniors, or immunocompromised individuals in the household

Lead Service Line Replacement Can’t Be Done DIY

We get it, you’re handy. Maybe you’ve handled minor plumbing fixes yourself. But replacing lead pipes isn’t like swapping out a faucet.

This work involves:

• Digging through potentially contaminated soil
• Handling old infrastructure that may crumble at the touch
• Pulling city permits and complying with safety codes
• Coordinating with public utilities to avoid damaging other lines

In short, you need certified professionals. And fast.

Delaying the Work? It Could Cost You More Than You Think

Putting off lead water line replacement might feel like you’re saving money in the short term. But down the road? It can hit hard.

We’ve seen it too many times:

• Families have been paying for bottled water for years instead of investing once in lead pipe removal
• Homes failing inspection during resale because they hadn’t addressed outdated plumbing
• Medical bills are adding up from unexplained illnesses that trace back to lead water service

When you compare the service line replacement cost to what you risk by doing nothing, it becomes clear: the cost of replacement is small next to the cost of regret.

Programs Exist to Help: But You Need to Act

The good news? Many cities are rolling out lead service line replacement programs to help offset the cost. New York’s lead replacement program has been expanding year by year, offering homeowners financial assistance or even full coverage for eligible homes.

But here’s the catch: spots are limited. And these programs often require you to apply, qualify, and act within a certain window. That’s why we urge homeowners to check if they’re eligible and let professionals like us walk them through the paperwork.

You don’t have to figure it out alone.

What Happens When We Replace Your Lead Service Line

Here’s what to expect when you bring us in for water service line replacement:

1. Inspection: We use advanced tools to detect whether your existing pipes contain lead.
2. Permit Coordination: We handle everything with the city, from DEP permits to safe dig protocols.
3. Excavation & Removal: Using trenchless methods wherever possible, we remove old lead lines.
4. Installation: New, safe materials like copper or approved PEX piping are installed.
5. Testing: We ensure everything is clean, pressurized, and fully compliant with health codes.

And we do all of this while keeping your property safe, tidy, and respected.

Lead Pipes Affect More Than Just Drinking Water

Here’s something people forget: your entire home’s water usage depends on that same lead pipe, not just your kitchen tap.

That means:

• Baths and showers can lead to your skin
• Laundry rinses clothes in contaminated water
• Dishwashers clean your utensils with water from the same source
• Even humidifiers pull from the main line

So if you’re thinking about lining lead water pipes as a temporary fix, it might not go far enough. Replacing a water line with safe, modern material is the only true solution.

You’re Not Just Upgrading a Pipe: You’re Protecting a Legacy

Many New Yorkers live in homes passed down from generation to generation. Choosing lead pipe replacement isn’t just about now; it’s about the future.

We’ve worked with families replacing lines in homes they plan to pass to their kids. One father in Queens told us, “I want my daughter to drink clean water long after I’m gone.” That’s the mindset we admire and support with everything we do.

How to Get Started and Why You Shouldn’t Wait

You don’t need to know the ins and outs of contractor lead service specs. You just need to call the right team.

At Harris Water Main & Sewer, we’ve helped thousands of New Yorkers access clean, safe water with full lead water pipe replacement. We walk you through:

• Checking eligibility for lead service line replacement plans
• Exploring funding through your city’s lead line replacement program
• Understanding costs, timing, and impact
• Replacing both city and private lines, no patchwork fixes

Final Word: Safe Water Shouldn’t Be a Luxury

This isn’t about panic. It’s about priorities. Replacing lead service lines is one of the most valuable decisions you can make as a homeowner, one that protects your health, your family, and your home’s value.

If you’ve delayed it because you weren’t sure what to do, now’s the time.

Disclaimer: This article is general and may not reflect NYC requirements. For NYC-specific guidance, contact Harris Water Main & Sewer Contractors.

Call Today for Trusted Lead Pipe Replacement

At Harris Water Main & Sewer, we’ve earned our reputation by doing the job right, the first time. We don’t cut corners. We don’t confuse clients. We replace lead pipes with care, clarity, and complete professionalism.

Let’s get your home safe today, not someday.

Call now to schedule your lead pipe inspection and replacement plan. Clean water starts with the right line.