Lead Service Line Replacement Program

Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) provides water service to about 41,000 properties.  Of these, about 1,300 (3 percent) have been identified as having lead or galvanized water service pipes needing replacement.

RPU has partnered with the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, and our consultant Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. (SEH®) to inventory and systematically replace lead and galvanized water service lines throughout the community.

What Is a Water Service Line?

The water service line is the pipe that connects the water main (in the street) to your home. It typically enters your home through the basement and connects to the water meter and your interior plumbing.

  • Ownership: The service line is owned by the property owner, and it is their responsibility to maintain or replace.

Replacement Program Overview

  • Lead and galvanized service lines will be replaced at no cost to the homeowner.
  • This is a voluntary program.  Property owners with lead or galvanized water services are highly encouraged to work with RPU to benefit from this important program. 

What the Project Includes

  • Inspecting current water service lines
  • Developing a full system inventory
  • Replacing lead and galvanized service lines
  • Post-installation flushing and testing

Project Timeline

  • Rochester’s goal: Complete replacements by end of 2028

Is Your Service Line Made of Lead?

Homes built before 1979 may have lead service lines. Plumbing installed before 1986 may use galvanized pipes and lead-based solder, both of which can impact water quality.

How to Check for Lead or Galvanized services in your home:

  1. Review Map: Look up your address in the interactive map or contact SEH at 507-288-6464 or RPULeadReplacement@sehinc.com.

What does it mean if your service material says unknown?  "Unknown" means our records for your address do not show material type for your water service line. As part of this project, we will work to resolve all “unknowns” and ensure those with lead or galvanized services can participate.

  1. Material Test
  • Lead Pipe - Look for a dull gray, soft pipe extending through the basement floor and leading into the water meter that:
    • Reveals a shiny silver color when scratched with a key or screwdriver
    • Does not attract a magnet
  • Galvanized Pipe – Look for a solid gray colored pipe that is magnetic, extending up through the basement floor and leading into the water meter.

An instructional video is coming soon to help with visual inspections.  If you need assistance, please contact SEH at 507-288-6464 or RPULeadReplacement@sehinc.com.

Health & Safety Information

What Are the Health Effects of Lead and How to Reduce Exposure?

The Minnesota Department of Health is a key source of information to learn more about the health effects from lead exposure and what steps can be taken to reduce exposure:

Program Enrollment & Construction Process

Step 1: Schedule a Pre-Construction Appointment

Provide access to the water meter inside your home.

Step 2: Sign the Access Agreement

Property owners must sign a form allowing RPU to perform work on their property: Access Agreement form

Step 3: Construction and Replacement

  • Work is scheduled between spring and fall
  • Most replacements are completed within one day
  • Crews dig 2–3 small areas (street, boulevard, possibly your yard)
  • Service line is replaced with new copper pipe
  • Inspectors test and flush lines after installation
  • Holes are refilled and patched

Step 4: Post-Replacement Flushing

Immediately After Installation:

  • Run all cold-water faucets for 30 minutes
  • Start at the lowest level, then work upward
  • Shut them off in the same order
  • An RPU representative will review the flushing process with property owners on the day the work is completed. Informational video coming soon.

Next 30 Days:

  • Flush your plumbing for 5 minutes each morning before use
  • Clean faucet aerators weekly

Program Eligibility & Prioritization

Due to funding and construction limits, RPU prioritizes replacements by:

  • Aligning with planned water main and street reconstruction projects
  • Targeting areas with vulnerable populations, including households with children under five and low-income communities (per EPA criteria)

Can I Replace My Lead Line Now?

Yes. Property owners may choose to hire a contractor and replace their privately owned service line at any time and at their own expense.

Note: RPU’s Lead Removal Program funding is only available for replacements conducted as part of RPU scheduled projects.

Questions?

Contact SEH at 507-288-6464 or RPULeadReplacement@sehinc.com.