Lead Replacement Incentive Program

• Use only cold water for drinking and cooking
• Before drinking, flush the water system by running the tap until the water is cold to the touch, especially if you have not used the water for a few hours; the longer water remains standing in a lead pipe, the greater the chance lead can leach into the water
• Put a bottle of water in the refrigerator at night for early morning use
• Replace your private lead water service

The Lead Replacement Incentive Program exists to encourage property owners to replace private lead water services. While private water service connections are the responsibility of the owner, BWSC has developed this voluntary grant program as an incentive to remove lead from water services. Financial assistance, in the form of a credit of up to $4000.00 towards the cost of the replacement and the ability to pay interest-free over a 60 month period, is available to eligible property owners.

It is the portion of the water service pipe running from the property line into the building. This pipe may be made of or contain lead.

Property owners are eligible to participate in the program if all of the following conditions are met:

• The property is served by a 2 inches or smaller water service pipe, which contains lead
• The water and sewer account for the property is active and not delinquent
• The property owner agrees to have the work done by BWSC
• The work presents no extraordinary physical obstacles. For example, BWSC will not make a repair that requires removal of a porch, stairs, wall, fence, or shrubs

BWSC reserves the right to determine the eligibility of a property.

The estimated cost of the private lead water service replacement will be determined after an initial review of the property. Eligible property owners may qualify for a credit of up to $4000.00 towards the cost of the replacement by enrolling in this voluntary program.

Property owners will have the ability to pay for the lead service replacement either:

•    In a lump sum payment
•    Interest-free, over a 60 month period as part of the water and sewer bill

To apply, call the Lead Hotline at 617-989-7888. Your property will be reviewed. Once the cost is determined, you may enroll, if eligible. Service replacement work is generally performed from April to October and is subject to availability.

For more information, call the Lead Hotline at 617-989-7888.

Lead Replacement Brochure

Supplemental Resources

Boston Public Health Commission
617-534-5395

Department of Environmental Protection
E-mail:  Program.Director-DWP@state.ma.us
617-292-5770

Environmental Protection Agency
1-800-424-LEAD (5323)

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority
617-242-LEAD (5323)