Introduction to the Program

NPU is working to comply with the EPAs Lead and Copper Rule Revision (LCRR) which includes the research and updating of water service lines throughout Norwich. The drinking water that leaves our treatment plants is distributed through NPU’s system, which does not contain lead. While the water that we provide to homes and businesses is lead-free, lead can get into the water as it moves through lead-containing household fixtures, plumbing and water service lines. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. NPU is working to reduce lead at the customer taps, using corrosion control treatment to prevent lead from leaching out of pipes into the water and educating the public on ways to minimize any potential health risks.

Lead Service Line Inventory Map

Click the map to locate your residence. Enter the address in the search bar on the top right side of the map, and then click the colored circle with the address number to view service details.

To view the Map, click on the Map image – Norwich Water Services (leaving NPU Website and opens in new tab)

Norwich Public Utilities does not guarantee the accuracy of these records and maps, and shall be used for the sole purpose of providing the public with information regarding public water service lines and not for any commercial, legal, or other use. These records may be updated as needed and as information becomes available. If you have any questions regarding lead services, please contact Norwich Public Utilities at (860) 887-2555 or GettheLeadOut@npumail.com

Survey of Service Line Materials

NPU has created an initial inventory of lead service lines based on construction records, but those records are not complete.  To improve our inventory, we will be conducting field surveys throughout our service area. Two types of surveys will be conducted: basement surveys and excavations.  Sites selected for these service line material surveys will receive a notification letter and/or door hanger prior to work being completed.  Methods to be used for determining service line materials include:

• • • Scratch and magnet test near the water meter
    • Lead confirmation test (in-home surface lead test) near the water meter
    • Excavation at the curb stop generally located near the property line

NPU has partnered with Arcadis to complete these surveys.  Arcadis staff will be on site to complete both types of surveys and can be identified by NPU car magnets, Arcadis contractor photo badges, and NPU contractor photo badges.  Please call NPU customer service with any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does lead get into drinking water?

Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) is committed to providing a safe source of drinking water to its customers and works tirelessly to keep that commitment. NPU treats, tests, and distributes high-quality drinking water to you and the community. The water NPU provides every day is lead-free when it leaves the treatment plant and meets all EPA Drinking Water Standards. Corrosion control treatment is added to the water prior to leaving the plant to prevent corrosion of the mains and services within our distribution system.

After water leaves the NPU water main, however, it may be exposed to lead as it flows through a lead service line and into in-home plumbing and fixtures. Not all homes contain lead service lines or fixtures. If your home was built before 1986, its service line may be made of lead. Make sure that any plumbing fixtures you install are certified to be lead-free.

What is a service line and who owns it?

A service line is a pipe that connects the water main in the street to your household plumbing. In the NPU service area, NPU owns the portion of it from the water main (in the street) to the curb stop (outside the home). The service line is owned by the property owner from the curb stop (generally located near the property line) into the residence.

What is the purpose of the water service line surveys?

NPU has partnered with Arcadis to complete these surveys.  Arcadis staff will be on site to complete both types of surveys and can be identified by NPU car magnets, Arcadis contractor photo badges, and NPU contractor photo badges.  Please call NPU customer service with any concerns.

What is NPU doing to identify lead service lines?

NPU has created an initial inventory of lead service lines based on construction and field verification records, but those records are not complete. To improve our inventory, NPU has hired a contractor to perform select in-home verification surveys. The in-home verification survey includes a physical assessment of the property’s water service line near the water meter to determine the current service line material. Access to the service line inside the home (often in the basement) is required for a verification test; homeowners will be notified ahead of time if their home has been scheduled for a survey. The results of the survey will be provided to customers at the time the inspection is completed.

How do I know if my water service line is made of lead?

Identification of the type of material used for service lines and in-home plumbing can be done using a magnet and a coin or key following the instructions below.

I believe I have sources of lead in my home. What should I do until they are removed?

Please refer to the What to Know About Your Drinking Water material for information. If you suspect you have a lead service line, reach out to NPU at 860-887-2555 or GettheLeadOut@npumail.com to schedule your free in-home evaluation.

For More Information:

Visit epa.gov/lead

NPU Customer Service: 860-887-2555

Email: GetTheLeadOut@npumail.com