Lead Service Line Replacement FAQs
Do I qualify for a lead service line replacement?
The City is subject to Illinois' Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act (Public Act 102-0613). This act mandates that Aurora must replace all privately owned water service lines throughout the city that are fully or partially composed of lead, or galvanized steel. The City is currently doing replacements at a rate of approximately 3% per year to eliminate these service lines.
If my service line is a lead line, when will it replaced?
If your service line is fully or partially made of lead, it will eventually be replaced by the City at no cost to you. However, we cannot guarantee that your line will be replaced in the next several years.
What does it cost to replace my service line?
The City currently conducts lead service line replacements as part of its Capital Improvement Plan which includes water main and/or sewer main installation and repair. Through this program, your lead service line will eventually be replaced by the City at no cost to you. Should you wish to replace your service line yourself now, it typically costs $4,000-6,000 to replace the house-side portion. If a homeowner chooses to replace house-side portion on their own, the City will replace the section of the service line from the water shut-off valve to the water main within 30 days.
If my lead service line is replaced, will all the lead in my drinking water be removed?
Not necessarily. If you live in a building that was built prior to 1987, it is possible that your plumbing fixtures can contain lead or lead solder that was used at the joints of your interior piping. A licensed plumber can help figure out if you have lead material in your indoor plumbing, or you can use an EPA-approved Lead Test Kit. More information on the kits can be found by visiting the EPA's website.
Why should I replace my lead service line?
You should replace your lead service line to protect your personal health and your family’s health. No amount of lead is safe for humans to consume. Young children (under 6 years old) and the elderly can be more affected by lead exposure. They, along with pregnant women, may be at a higher public health risk to lead. Replacement through the City of Aurora’s Program is free to the property owner.
What will replacement construction look like in my front yard/sidewalk area?
The construction crew will disturb a small section of sidewalk or yard (approximately a 4-foot by 4-foot area) and temporarily restore immediately after replacing your line. The crew will return for final restoration replacing asphalt or concrete and restoring grass with topsoil and seeding. No trees will be removed unless first discussed with the property owner. The City will not restore other landscaping, so please move plants and bushes out of the replacement area ahead of time.
What if I do NOT replace my lead service line?
Lead is a public health risk. According to the U.S. EPA, there is no safe level of lead that can be consumed or ingested. The City strongly recommends replacing your lead service line. If you don’t, you risk:
• The City currently uses corrosion control methods to lower the risk of lead from pipes dissolving in water. However, even with corrosion control, if you are away from your home or building for more than 6 hours, lead could enter your drinking water.
• Higher replacement costs at a later date. Lead service lines are typically over 70 years old and will eventually fail. Homeowners who wait until their service line fails to replace it will most likely pay a higher cost since it will be a single replacement during an emergency situation.
How can we check if our home has lead pipes?
The City has an online web portal where you can check for free.