FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What are lead service lines and why is it important to replace them?
Lead service lines are pipes that transport water from the main under the street into homes or businesses. If the pipes are made of lead, they create the potential for future lead exposure. Removing them will ensure that residents are safe.
How can I find out if I have a lead service line?
JCMUA is continually reviewing records to update their service line inventory for properties in Jersey City. You can check the inventory here. All residents with known lead service lines will receive a certified letter with more information. All known lead service lines will be replaced by JCMUA as part of the Lead Free JC multi-year project. See this page for current areas where we are working.
If I have a lead service line, what should I do?
Just because you have an identified lead service line in your home does not mean that you have any lead in your water. The drinking water provided by JCMUA is tested regularly and continues to be in compliance with all state and federal lead levels.
What should I do if my property is listed as “unknown?”
JCMUA will be working over the next several years to identify all lead service lines in the system. The Service Line Inventory will continually be updated as new information becomes available. JCMUA is continuing to review records and conduct field investigations to determine the material of service lines designated as “unknown” material. JCMUA is encouraging all customers to report the material of your service line using the Service Line ID instructions.
Follow this link for simple step by step instructions on how to identify your service line material and how to submit that information to JCUMA.
If you have any questions on this process or need assistance, please call the Lead Free JC support line at (201) 365-6189.
How are the lead service lines replaced?
Lead service lines will be removed by a licensed plumber. They are most-often replaced with copper pipes. The actual material choice will depend on site characteristics, installation approach, and local codes. See our construction page for a detailed explanation of the replacement process.
How long will it take to complete this project? What will it cost?
The goal is to replace all lead service lines in Jersey City by 2031. The program is projected to cost $288 million. JCMUA is continually looking for state and federal funding to reduce the costs of this project.
When will my service line be replaced?
JCMUA is planning a phased replacement plan to span over the next several years with the goal of replacng approximately 1,000 lead service lines a year. JCMUA will be considering many factors when developing this multi-year phased replacement approach. Areas for replacement will be prioritized based on factors including but not limited to the targeting of areas with known lead service lines; lead service line replacement for disadvantaged consumers; and populations most sensitive to the effects of lead in accordance with federal regulations.
At this time, it is estimated that there are approximately 16,000 lead service lines in the JCMUA distribution system. JCMUA will provide advance notice to customers with known lead service lines when replacement work is planned in their area. Project plans will be updated on this website. For more detail on replacement prioritization see our construction page.
For more FAQ’s specific to the LeadFree JC lead service line replacement program, see our construction page.