Water Service Line Pipe Inventory

The Water & Sewer Department must develop an inventory of all water service line pipe materials as part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s revised Lead and Copper Rule. Homes built before 1951 may still have lead service lines. Residents who live in these homes must conduct inspections of their water service line material and report the results to the City through its online reporting system. If residents cannot conduct the inspection themselves, the City will send its inspectors to complete the task.

The City of Middletown is working diligently to ensure your drinking water is safe and continues to be lead-free.  Lead can get into the water as it passes through a water service line that contains lead. 

Not sure when your home was built? Click here to find out.

If your home was built before 1951, we need your help identifying the type of material of the water service pipe entering your house and reporting your results to the City. Here is how you can check your water pipe, also known as your “service line":

1. Find your water meter. 

• This is likely in the basement. Look for where the pipe comes through the wall lor floor.  This pipe runs to the water meter in your basement from the water main in the street.
• If you can't find your service line, please call 860-254-0881 for assistance.

2. Determine the material of the pipe between the wall and the meter. If your pipe is black or blue, it is likely plastic. If your pipe is metal, you will need a coin and a magnet. Use a coin to scratch the pipe:  

If the scratched area is shiny like a new penny and the magnet does NOT stick, it is likely copper.		Copper Pipe
If the scratch turns shiny silver, it could be either lead or steel. If the magnet sticks, it is likely steel.		Galvanized Steel Pipe
If the pipe scratches easily, and the magnet does NOT stick, it is likely lead.		Lead Pipe

3. Report your results by clicking here.   

If you cannot report your results online, you can email a photo of the pipe with your name and address to MiddletownInspections@Kleinfelder.com. A printable pamphlet with these directions and a written submission form can be downloaded by clicking here.

If you are unable to conduct the inspection, we will have a representative come to your home. To schedule the visit, call 860-254-0875. All City inspections must be completed by October 1, 2024, to meet the regulatory deadline. 

For general questions about the inventory program, call 860-254-0881. For details about lead in water service lines, visit portal.ct.gov/dph/drinking-water/dws/lead-and-copper-rule and www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/protect-your-tap-quick-check-lead 

For more information on water and sewer line ownership click here.

Why is Lead Dangerous?

Lead can be found in all parts of our environment, including in your home’s plumbing. It is a toxic metal that can be harmful to human health when ingested, especially for children, even at low exposure levels.

What if you have a Lead pipe?

The City has secured funding to support the replacement of lead water service lines. Funding is limited and eligibility is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Help reduce your exposure to Lead

	Run your tap to flush your pipes before using water for drinking or cooking.
	Use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula. Boiling water does not remove lead from water.
	Clean your faucet’s screen (also known as an aerator) regularly.
	Use an NSF-certified pitcher or faucet filter and be sure to replace the filter according to product instructions.

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