Lead pipe replacement programs
Some cities replace the lead pipe on your side of the property line for free, or pay you back. Pick your city.
Chicago, IL
Free full replacement of the lead line from the water main into the home, plus a free water meter Or: The city waives permit fees, which the page says can save up to $5,000, connects the new line to the main, and gives a free water meter..
City of Chicago Department of Water Management. You can hire your own plumber.
Cincinnati, OH
100% of the cost of replacing a private lead or galvanized steel line, including restoring the yard..
Greater Cincinnati Water Works. The utility does the work.
Denver, CO
Replacement of a customer-owned lead line with copper at no direct charge, plus a free pitcher and filters certified to remove lead until six months after the replacement. Or: A one-time $3,800 payment, about half of Denver Water's own cost, if you replace your line before your area is scheduled..
Denver Water. You can hire your own plumber.
Detroit, MI
Replacement of the lead line when crews are on your block, paid from $90 million in state and federal funds.
Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. The utility does the work.
New York City, NY
Free replacement of a private lead or galvanized steel line with copper, plus a free lead filter pitcher and cartridges.
NYC Department of Environmental Protection. The utility does the work.
Philadelphia, PA
A 0% interest loan for replacing a private lead service line, paid back over 60 months..
Philadelphia Water Department. The utility does the work.
Pittsburgh, PA
Up to 100% of your cost back on an income scale (100%, 75%, or 50%), or a flat $1,000 for anyone who skips income verification..
Pittsburgh Water (PWSA). You can hire your own plumber.
Trenton, NJ
Free replacement of both the utility side and your side of a lead or galvanized line.
Trenton Water Works. The utility does the work.
Washington, DC, DC
Up to a 100% discount on replacing the private side of the line when it is lead, galvanized, or brass, while funding lasts. Or: The full cost of replacing the private-side lead pipe when DC Water replaces the public side during a main project..
DC Water and the DC Department of Energy and Environment. The utility does the work.
Not on the list?
Ask your water utility whether your service line is lead and whether it helps pay to replace it. How to check your line, and what EPA says to do meanwhile.
Test your water first
- Free lead test kits from city water utilities
- Tap Score's mail-in Lead and Copper test: $55 (Tap Score, price checked October 2, 2026)
Checked on each program's official page October 3, 2026. Programs change and run out of money. Check the official page before you hire anyone. Flint's replacement program is complete and closed.