NJAW just replaced my service line. What's next?

Read NJAW Post Service Line Replacement Instructions in other languages.

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April 2nd Community Meeting

Background

In July 2021, the state of New Jersey enacted legislation that requires utility companies to replace utility-owned and customer-owned lead and galvanized service lines by 2031. In previous years, NJAW scheduled the replacement of lead and galvanized service lines in Maplewood at a rate that would meet the 2031 deadline. NJAW now wants to dramatically increase the pace of service line replacements and complete all of the necessary work within the next year – which means residents will see an increase in NJAW’s work around town.

Additional information about the program can be found online at: http://www.njamwater.com/leadfacts

Pitcher Filters

As part of New Jersey American Water’s commitment to providing safe drinking water, the distribution of pitcher filters to customers following a lead or galvanized steel service line replacement in Maplewood began on May 1, 2024. Customers received a pitcher filter and an information packet with installation and flushing instructions, in accordance with the upcoming U.S. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR), which require water providers to distribute filters after these replacements beginning no later than October 16, 2024.

While New Jersey American Water’s water consistently meets state and federal water quality standards including those set for lead, the use of pitcher filters for six months after a service line replacement provides an extra layer of protection, as replacing lead and certain galvanized service lines may result in a temporary increase in lead levels in drinking water.

Approximately three to four months after the replacement, customers will receive a postcard from New Jersey American Water with information on how to arrange a free water test for lead, with results provided once available.

Lead Service Line Replacement

New Jersey American Water is actively working in Maplewood as part of our Lead Service Line Replacement Program to identify unknown service lines material and replace confirmed lead and galvanized service lines. We are committed to replacing all lead and galvanized service lines by 2031.

The service line is the pipe that connects your home to the water main in the street. A portion of the service line to your residence is owned by New Jersey American Water, while the other portion is owned by the homeowner.

To help identify the material of the customer-side service line, our qualified contractor, Montana Construction, will utilize two methods to confirm the pipe material by canvassing the community and preforming in-house inspection or by performing a “test hole” near the water meter or curb stop in the front yard identified homes. One or both portions of the service line may be exposed for inspection and after identified, a temporary surface restoration will be completed with permanent restoration work scheduled approximately 90 days out.

If it’s discovered that a portion of the service line contains lead or galvanized piping, we will work with you to schedule its replacement, including the portion entering the basement or crawlspace. There is no direct, out of pocket cost to you at the time of the replacement. Our goal is to replace 100% of all lead and galvanized service lines under this program.

To take advantage of our service line replacement program, the property owner must sign a consent agreement allowing our contractor to complete the service line replacement work, as it requires access inside the property to complete the connection to your home’s internal plumbing. Service line replacement, permit fees, and restoration associated with this work will be paid for by New Jersey American Water.

If you know the material of your service line, please scan the QR code below and self-identify using our online mapping tool. Additional information about the program can be found online at www.njamwater.com/leadfacts and can be viewed in en Español.