Lead Pipe Map

Lead pipe replacement grants and free programs

Homeowners rarely apply for federal lead pipe money directly. It flows to water utilities, which then replace private-side lines for free or at a discount. Your utility is the place to start.

Where the money comes from

  • Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: $15 billion dedicated to lead service line replacement, distributed to states through Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, much of it as grants or forgivable loans.
  • State programs: several states add their own grants or require utilities to cover the full line.
  • Utility rates and bonds: many utilities fund replacement through water bills.

Common program types

  • Free full replacement when the utility works on your block.
  • Fixed fee or cost share, where you pay a set amount.
  • Zero-interest loans repaid on your water bill or property tax bill.
  • Income-based grants for qualifying households.
  • Reimbursement if you hire your own plumber, sometimes up to a cap.

What to ask your utility

  1. Is my address on the replacement list, and when?
  2. Do you pay for the private side? Is it free, a fixed fee, or a loan?
  3. Are there income-based grants?
  4. If I replace it myself now, will you reimburse me or replace your side at the same time?

Find your utility's contact details on its Lead Pipe Map page. If you'd rather not wait, get plumber quotes and compare them with the utility's offer. More on costs and deadlines.

Common questions

Is there a government grant to replace lead pipes?

Federal funds go to utilities through state revolving funds, not to homeowners directly. Ask your water utility about free, cost-share or income-based replacement programs.

Will my city replace my lead pipe for free?

Many utilities replace the private side for free or for a fixed fee, often when they work on your street. Policies vary, so ask your utility.

Can I get reimbursed if I replace my own lead line?

Some utilities reimburse homeowners up to a cap if the work meets their standards. Ask before you hire a plumber.

More: How to tell if your home has a lead service line · What "lead status unknown" means · Water filters that remove lead · How to test your tap water for lead · Lead service line replacement: cost, who pays and deadlines · Does a Brita filter remove lead?