In the District, like in most older cities, homes built before the 1980’s were typically built with a lead service line—the pipe that connects the city water supply to your household plumbing. It is now widely understood that a number of illnesses and injuries can be caused by lead exposure. The District Government recognizes this and in response Mayor Bowser signed legislation for two new lead service line replacement programs that assist homes affected by this environmental hazard:
1. Full Lead Pipe Replacement
The District has allocated $8.5 million to DC Water to cover the complete cost of the lead water service pipe replacement on private property when DC Water replaces the portion of lead pipe in public space during a Capital Improvement Project (i.e., water main replacement).
NOTE: Customers do not need to apply to this program and DC Water will contact you if there are any planned projects in your neighborhood.
If both the public and private portions of the service line are lead and no capital improvement is scheduled for two years, property owners can enroll in the Voluntary Lead Service Pipe Replacement Program. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis and this program is subject to the availability of funding.
For more information visit DC Water's lead service replacement page, or email [email protected]
2. Private-side Partial Lead Pipe Replacements
The Lead Pipe Replacement Assistance Program (LPRAP) uses District and DC Water non-ratepayer funds to assist with eligible residential property owners’ lead pipe replacement.
LPRAP currently covers the cost of replacement for homeowners enrolled in the program. Starting in October 2026, DC Water is expanding the options for individual line replacement like those covered under LPRAP. All homeowners who may be eligible for a free individual line replacement, including LPRAP-eligible households, can apply on DC Water's website.
Learn more about LPRAP
Who do I contact if I have a question about LPRAP?
Contact Lead Free DC at 202-787-4044 or [email protected] for questions about lead service line replacements.
- Get information regarding drinking water and water filtration for homes and businesses.
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