Boston's No-Cost Lead Water Line Replacement

The water pipe that runs from the street into an older Boston building can be made of lead, and part of it belongs to the owner. The Boston Water and Sewer Commission will replace that part for free if the property qualifies.

Which part of the pipe is yours

BWSC calls it the private water service: the portion of the water service pipe running from the property line into the building. The Commission says private water service connections are the responsibility of the owner. Its brochure adds that the removal of any portion of a lead service in the public way is fully funded by the Commission.

What the program costs

Under the Lead Replacement Incentive Program, the replacement comes at no cost to an eligible owner. BWSC’s brochure says the no-cost version took effect January 1, 2023, and the Commission’s announcement credits federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act with defraying the cost.

Who qualifies

BWSC lists four conditions. The property is served by a water service pipe 2 inches or smaller that contains lead. The water and sewer account is active and not delinquent. The owner agrees to have the work done by BWSC. And the work presents no extraordinary physical obstacles; the Commission gives the example that it will not make a repair that requires removing a porch, stairs, a wall, a fence or shrubs. BWSC reserves the right to determine whether a property is eligible.

Which buildings to look at

BWSC says that prior to 1950, lead was used for exterior plumbing connections and can be found in older buildings.

How to apply and when the work happens

You apply by calling BWSC’s Lead Hotline, listed on the program page. The property is reviewed, and if it’s eligible you can enroll. BWSC says service replacement work is generally performed from April to October and is subject to availability.

What BWSC suggests in the meantime

The program page lists steps to reduce the risk: use only cold water for drinking and cooking, run the tap until the water is cold to the touch before drinking, especially if the water hasn’t been used for a few hours, and keep a bottle of water in the refrigerator overnight for early morning use.

If you’re buying an older house

What the service line is made of is worth asking about during your inspection period, and the owner can call BWSC about it. I’m happy to help you figure out who to ask. Diana Kim, REALTOR®, eXp Realty.