Lead in drinking water is still a serious issue for many homes in the United States. Cities and water utilities are working to identify and replace old lead service lines, but these projects do not happen overnight. In some areas, replacement can take years because utilities must locate old lines, schedule work, secure funding, and coordinate with homeowners.

That means some homes may still have lead service lines or older plumbing materials even while replacement programs are underway. For homeowners, the important question is not just whether the city is working on the problem. The question is what you can do now to help reduce possible lead exposure in your own home.