New Law Says Your Water Service Line May Need To Be Replaced
A federal law established in 2021 requiring the replacement of some water service lines officially went into effect on October 16, 2024.
The Revised Lead And Copper Rule mandates that cities identify and inventory water service lines made of non-conforming materials.
These include lines made of:
- Lead
- Galvanized materials
- Unknown materials
But listen up because here's where things get a bit hairy.
Replacement of Non-Conforming Lines
The EPA's Lead and Copper Rule will likely require you to replace all lead, galvanized, and unknown-material service lines.
And guess what? That cost will fall on you!
According to the Great Falls City code, the property owner is responsible for replacing the entire service line from the water main to the building if it does not meet current standards.
Identifying Non-Conforming Service Lines
The City of Great Falls has compiled a spreadsheet of locations with non-conforming water service lines.
Access the list of affected properties here:
City Non-Conforming Water Service Lines Spreadsheet.
What Should You Do if You Have a Non-Conforming Line?
The City of Great Falls is asking property owners with these lines to contact the City's water service hotline at (406) 455-8401 to schedule an inspection.
A city inspector will assess the service line and confirm the type of material used.
Upcoming Notifications and Inspections
Starting November 1, 2024, the City of Great Falls will send letters to all property owners with non-conforming service lines who have not yet responded with a test form.
This letter will provide information on how to check the material of your service line and guide you through the following steps.
Additionally, City inspectors will go door-to-door to properties that have not responded to earlier notifications.
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