News Flash

Federal safe drinking water regulations require that cities compile and maintain an inventory of all water service lines which connect homes and businesses to city water mains. The goal is to identify any remaining lead pipes in the community and figure out ways to replace them. 

Here’s how you can help: 

• Locate the water service line entering your home/building. (It’s usually in the basement near the water heater.)
• Identify the pipe material with a few quick and easy techniques (see table below).
• Snap a photo of the pipe and submit with your report on the city website.

Step 1 - Locate the Water Service Line

Locate where the water service line enters the building. You’ll need to see where the pipe comes through the floor or wall - this will be in the basement or lowest floor near the water shut-off valve.

Step 2 - Identify the Pipe Material

Refer to the chart for more information. Look at the color and shape of the pipe. Note any threads or bulb. Scratch pipe with a coin or key to reveal the metal. You may need to scratch through corrosion or paint. See if a magnet sticks to the pipe. A magnet will not stick to a lead pipe.

Step 3 (optional) - Take Three Photos

• Pipe coming through wall or floor.
• Closer view of pipe with scratch.
• Further view of pipe that includes shut off valve.

Step 4 - Submit Your Report

Submit your report and photos (optional) to the city website

Too busy to check? Schedule a free, no-hassle appointment with Roseville Public Works staff, who will stop by your home and record that information for you. A city inspector can complete the inspection in less than five minutes.

The City of Roseville, which has 10,700 water service lines, needs to complete its inventory by October 16, 2024.

Fortunately, most of Roseville was built in the 1950s and 60s and a vast majority of the city’s water service lines connecting homes to city water service are copper, said Public Works Director Jesse Freihammer.

“We suspect we have very few, hopefully none, but we still need to document it,” Freihammer said.

If lead is discovered, there is no requirement that homeowners replace that water line but there are financial resources available to residents interested in switching to safer, modern pipe material.

Click here to submit your report.