At TWC, ensuring the water quality we provide to the community and our customers is our top priority. That is why we regularly maintain and test our service lines and mains to guarantee that the water is lead-free.
It's important to note that water quality can change as it passes through customer-owned water service lines, plumbing, and fixtures that may contain lead. That's why we're actively expanding our lead and copper tap sampling program to identify additional lead sources. We aim to provide our customers with opportunities to reduce exposure to lead.
As part of this program, we'll investigate the material of customer-owned service lines and sample water in schools and childcare facilities. Although there's no current cause for concern, we're aligning our efforts with new regulations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality so that you can rest assured of the quality of your water.
Residential Water Service Line Responsibility
A service line is an underground pipe that connects a property to the water main. The line is divided into two parts: the public side, which is owned by the Texas Water Company and runs from the water main to the meter box, and the private side, which is owned by the customer and connects the meter box to the home.
The Texas Water Company is currently identifying the material used in both parts of the service line to locate any possible lead sources.
FAQ's About Service Lines
What is a service line?
A service line connects the water main to your home. This line is made up of two separate pipes. One connects the water main to the water meter, and the other connects the water meter to your home. Texas Water Company is responsible for the part that connects the water main to the meter, and the property owner is responsible for the part that connects the meter to the home.
How does lead get into drinking water?
Lead is rarely found naturally in our source water or in TWC treatment facilities. Traces of lead most commonly leach into water through the corrosion of lead pipes, solders, fixtures, fittings, and faucets.
How can I check my service line?
Records of your service line material may be included in a Customer Service Inspection of the home. If you do not have this, you may be able to inspect your service line from the meter box personally. Lead was prohibited as a service line material in Texas with the state lead ban on July 1st, 1988. Homes built after this are designated as having non-lead service lines. The Texas Water Company will also survey homes built before 1989 to confirm the service line material.
What happens if I have a lead service line?
If a lead service line is identified at your home, you will be notified by the Texas Water Company. Additional lead testing will be conducted to ensure that the trigger or action level for lead is not exceeded. A service line replacement plan is currently being developed to be submitted for approval by TCEQ.
How can I reduce my exposure to lead in drinking water?
Boiling water is not effective in removing lead from drinking water. Using cold water for drinking and cooking, replacing old fixtures, cleaning out aerators, and using home filters certified for lead removal are all effective methods for minimizing lead exposure in drinking water.