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Lead Line Replacement Process

Identify The Material

We will come out for an initial visit to assess the situation. During the visit, we will identify your pipe’s material free of charge.

Pull Permits

We will prepare all the permitting paperwork and handle the entire submission process. You’ll simply pay for the permit after the job is complete.

 
 

Replace with Cooper

Once we understand the lay of the land and have the permit in hand, we’ll remove your lead line and replace it with a new copper line.

 
 

Lead Line Replacement Process Simplified

What Causes Lead in Chicago’s Water?

Lead usually isn’t in the water that leaves the treatment plant. It gets into drinking water when it passes through:

  • Lead service lines connecting homes to the water main

  • Lead-based solder used in copper plumbing installed before 1986

  • Old brass faucets and fixtures

 

Chicago and many nearby suburbs used lead pipes well into the 1980s. When water sits in these pipes — overnight or during the workday — it can pick up lead particles that end up right in your tap.

 

Factors that increase lead leaching:

  • Age of the plumbing

  • Water sitting stagnant in pipes

  • Construction or plumbing repairs that disturb old pipes

  • Corrosive or changing water chemistry

Who Is Most at Risk?

    • Homes with lead service lines (very common across Chicago and nearby suburbs).

    • Properties built before 1986 that may still have lead solder or older fixtures.

    • Small children and pregnant women — not because they’re exposed more, but because their bodies absorb and retain more lead, making the health impacts more severe.

    • Buildings with low water use — water that sits in pipes for long stretches can collect more lead before it reaches the tap.

pregnant woman with sunlight touching her belly.

How to Reduce Lead Exposure at Home

  • Run cold water for 2–5 minutes before drinking or cooking

  • Use cold water for baby formula (lead dissolves more in hot water)

  • Install and maintain a certified water filter for lead removal

  • Clean faucet aerators monthly — particles can collect behind the screen

  • If possible: replace your home’s lead service line, we can help with that. Contact us here for a free estimate.

 

 

Want step-by-step prevention tips?
Visit our Lead Safety Guide (internal link here)