Question: How do I know if my service line is made of lead?
Answer: You can check the pipe where it comes through your basement wall and connects to the shut-off valve. If the pipe is painted, use sandpaper to expose the metal. Then, carefully scratch the pipe with a key or coin (don’t use a sharp knife). If the scratch is shiny silver, it could be lead or steel. Finally, place a strong magnet on the pipe—if it sticks, it is steel; if it does not stick, it is likely lead.
Now you know.
