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Program Purpose
The Lead Replacement Incentive Program was
created to encourage Boston's homeowners to replace the private lead
water service at their property. While private water service
connections are the responsibility of the owner, the Boston Water and
Sewer Commission
What is a Private Lead Water Service?
It is the portion of the water service pipe
running from the property line into the building that is made of
Lead generally is not present in source water, but can enter the tap water through the corrosion of plumbing materials. Prior to 1950, brass water pipes were used for interior plumbing in homes while lead was used for exterior plumbing connections. See Lead in Drinking Water. To protect your health and that of people in the building, the Commission urges homeowners to replace lead water services. How to Apply 1. Complete the Request for Estimate form and return it to the Commission, Attention: Community Services Department. Mail form to: 2. Once your Request for Estimate form is received, a Commission representative will contact you to setup an appointment to visit your property and prepare an estimate. 3. If you are eligible and agree to participate in the program, you will be given an agreement to sign which includes the cost of the replacement. Lead service replacements are subject to availability and will be given priority based upon the order in which requests are received. The work is generally performed from April to October. For additional information call the Lead Hotline at 617-989-7888. |
Who is Eligible? Boston owners of 1-3 family residential property with active water and sewer accounts and with water service pipes of two inch (2") diameter or less. The homeowner must agree to have the work done by the Commission and the account must not be delinquent. What is the Cost? The estimated cost of the private lead water service replacement will be determined after an initial review of the property. Eligible homeowners may qualify for a credit of up to $1,000 towards the cost of the replacement, by enrolling in this voluntary program. How Can I Pay? Homeowners will have the ability to pay for the lead service replacement either in:
Lead and Your Health Excessive amounts of lead in the body can cause health risks. The greatest risk is to young children and pregnant women. Amounts of lead that won't hurt adults can slow down mental and physical development in growing bodies. What can I do to Reduce the Risk? Follow these simple steps to reduce exposure to lead in the drinking water: Flush your
home's water system Use only
cold water for drinking and cooking. Replace your private lead water service.
Remove debris from faucet strainers regularly Remove loose lead solder and debris that may accumulate in your faucet strainers. Run the water for 3 to 5 minutes to flush out.
Replace internal plumbing and faucets Check your plumbing and replace any lead or brass plumbing or fixtures. Additional Sources of Information
Boston Public Health Commission
Environmental Protection Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority
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has
developed this voluntary program as an incentive to remove the lead from
water services in homes. Financial assistance in the form of a
credit up to $1,000 towards the cost of replacement and the ability to
pay over 24-month period