LEAP – for Homeowners

The Lead Elimination Assistance Program (LEAP) works closely with several localities and waterworks across Virginia to educate homeowners on the dangers of lead in drinking water. LEAP also offers grant funding to localities and waterworks to create and maintain Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Programs. Homeowners who are eligible and interested in removing lead pipes from their homes are able to submit an application directly to these programs. Please view our Frequently Asked Questions and our LSLR Partnership Programs below for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions - for Homeowners

Click on each bar below to expand and view the answers to frequently asked questions.

What is a lead service line?

Below is a depiction of a water service line. There is a public side attached to the water main and a private side attached to the homeowner's property. The locality is responsible for the public side, while the homeowner is responsible for the private side. If any portion of this service line on either the public or the private side contains lead, then it would be considered a lead service line (LSL).

If your question has not yet been answered, please feel free to contact your local Field Office or view the EPA's website for Basic Information about Lead in Drinking Water.

LSLR Partnership Programs

LEAP is currently partnered with four localities across the Commonwealth, which include the City of Richmond, the City of Alexandria, the City of Chesapeake, and Henry County (Fieldale). Each locality has its own Lead Service Line Replacement Program that applies to receive grant funding through the Office of Drinking Water at the Virginia Department of Health.

Unfortunately at this time, only the City of Richmond is taking applications from homeowners. Both single family homes and apartments are eligible. If you are a resident of the City of Richmond and are interested in replacing your lead service line, please click the button below to learn more and submit an application:

 

Please understand that the other LSLR Partnership Programs are still in the process of being set up or currently only do lead service line work on an emergency basis. LEAP is a relatively new program and hopes to expand to other areas of the Commonwealth in the future.