As a Village, we are taking on a project in identifying the material of each customer’s water service line and we need your help. If lead is discovered in your service line, the Village will work with you to replace the line in a future project!

  1. Locate the water meter on your property. This can be in a basement, crawl space or other exterior wall. (Reference images below for visual assistance) – Look for the pipe that comes through the wall of your home and connects to the meter.
  2. Test the Pipe – Use a key or coin to gently scratch the pipe like you would scratch a lottery ticket. – If the pipe is painted, use sandpaper to expose the metal first. – Place the magnet on the pipe to see if it sticks to the pipe.
    Copper may appear dull brown on the outside but will be the color of a bright penny if gently scratched. A magnet won’t stick.
    Lead will appear dull and soft but will turn a shiny silver color when scratched. A magnet won’t stick.
    Galvanized Steel scratched area will remain a dull gray. A magnet will stick.
    Plastic line is blue, white or black, does not appear to be any of the other materials listed above, and a magnet will not stick.
  3. Take a picture of the service line (incoming water service).
  4. Complete the SURVEY below.

Video on how to test your water pipes.

    Water Service Line Information

    Copper may appear dull brown on the outside but will be the color of a bright penny if gently scratched. A magnet won't stick.
    Lead will appear dull and soft but will turn a shiny silver color when scratched. A magnet won't stick.
    Galvanized Steel scratched area will remain a dull gray. A magnet will stick.
    Plastic line is blue, white or black, does not appear to be any of the other materials listed above, and a magnet will not stick.




    Property Information