Detroit lead service line replacement
Short answer
DWSD replaces verified lead service lines, including the private side, at no cost to the property owner, with owner or adult occupant (including tenant) permission. Work goes neighborhood by neighborhood; Michigan law requires all lead lines replaced by 2040.
- Official sources
- Last checked:
- Free, no sign-up
| Utility | Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) |
|---|---|
| Program | Lead Service Line Replacement Program |
| Type | Free (neighborhood schedule) |
| Phone | No program phone listed. Call 311 or your water utility, Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) (the number is also on your water bill). |
| Official page | detroitmi.gov/departments/detroit-water-and-sewerage-departm... |
Who qualifies
- Detroit property with a verified lead service line
- Owner or adult occupant (including tenant) gives permission
- Timing depends on DWSD's neighborhood schedule and funding
How to apply
- Check whether your line is lead (DWSD links a self-check tool and video)
- Submit DWSD's online self-verification form if a lead line is visible inside
- Watch for DWSD notice before work in your neighborhood
- Sign permission so crews can replace the line through to the meter
Good to know
DWSD reports 1,015 lead lines replaced in 2026 (data as of Aug 31, 2026) and more than 16,700 since 2018.
Your next steps, in order
Disclosure: Some links below are affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Plumber quotes are a referral service that is free to you, paid by providers, and your details are shared with them. We always show free programs first. Read our full disclosure.
1. Use the free or low-cost program first
Many utilities replace lines at no cost or offer no-interest loans.
Go to the official program2. Test your water
Some cities test free (Chicago: call 311). Otherwise a certified-lab mail-in kit is an option.
Tap Score test kit (affiliate link, placeholder)3. While you wait, consider a certified filter
Look for NSF/ANSI 53 certification for lead reduction.
NSF/ANSI 53 filters on Amazon (affiliate, placeholder)If the free program covers your line, you’re done. You don’t need step 4.
4. Not eligible or can’t wait? Compare plumbers
Before hiring, ask your utility whether you need pre-approval so you don’t lose program help.
Plumber quotes (referral, coming soon)
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