Lead and Copper

• Increased lead testing at elementary schools and childcare facilities. 

• Creating a searchable pipe material database with an inventory of private service line pipe materials by location. 

• Public education in school/childcare facilities and to the broader community about lead exposure and how to reduce the risk of lead in drinking water. 

• Removal of lead service lines or galvanized steel service lines previously downstream of a lead service line. 

Pipe Material Inventory

Charlotte is a relatively young city, with much of its growth happening in the past three decades – well after the original ban on lead plumbing legislation was passed in 1986. Fortunately, our infrastructure is newer and includes more current water service lines and materials that do not produce lead in drinking water. 

Charlotte Water has created a searchable pipe material database with an inventory of private service line pipe materials by location.

Corrosion Control Preventative Measures

To protect water quality as much as possible, Charlotte Water engages in corrosion control measures. Metals like lead and copper are more likely to leach at lower drinking water pH, so we have increased the pH of our water to reduce corrosion and the possibility of leaching. We also operate a highly pressurized system to reduce opportunities for stagnancy since decreased water contact time with materials decreases the risk of corrosion. 

Public vs. Private Water Service Line Responsibility

Your home’s water supply is made up of several different parts, some of which are owned by you, the homeowner, and some of which are owned by Charlotte Water. 

• The homeowner is responsible for the section of the water service line that connects the water to the home, as well as the home’s internal plumbing system. 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions