Select City of Buena Vista residents may soon receive a letter from Public Works regarding their water service line material being listed as unknown. We want to provide additional information about what this notice means, why it was required, and what steps residents can take. This information is provided to ensure clarity, transparency, and peace of mind.
Why This Letter Is Being Sent
Federal and state regulations require water utilities to develop and maintain an inventory of the materials used in water service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes and buildings. For some properties, particularly older homes or locations with incomplete historical records, the service line material cannot be confirmed without additional investigation.
When a service line is classified as unknown, regulations require water utilities to notify affected customers that the service line may be lead, even when there is no confirmation that lead is present. These notifications are precautionary and are required to ensure residents are informed.
It is important to note:
- This notice does not mean that lead has been found in your drinking water.
- This notice does not confirm that your service line is made of lead.
- The letter is being sent to comply with regulatory requirements when service line materials cannot be verified.
- Drinking water provided by the City of Buena vista continues to meet all state and federal water quality standards.
Health Effects of Lead
Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children may experience developmental or learning impacts, while adults may face increased risks of cardiovascular, kidney, or nervous system issues. Because of these potential health concerns, precautions are recommended when lead may be present.
Steps You Can Take to Reduce Potential Exposure
Although lead has not been confirmed in your service line, the following steps can help reduce potential exposure in homes with older plumbing or unknown service line materials:
- Run your water before use. Allow the water to run at the tap for about five minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. Activities such as showering, running the dishwasher, or flushing toilets also help flush water through household plumbing.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking. Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Lead dissolves more easily in how water. Do not use hot water to make baby formula.
- Clean your aerator regularly. Faucet screens, also known as aerators, can collect sediment and debris. Cleaning them regularly can help reduce potential exposure.
- Do not boil water to remover lead. Boiling water does not remove lead.
- Consider a certified water filer. Home water treatment devices certified by NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) to remove lead can provide additional protection.
- Check plumbing and wiring. Some plumbing fixtures or older solder may contain lead. In addition, electrical wiring may be grounded to plumbing, which can increase corrosion if a lead service line is present. A licensed processional can help evaluate these conditions.
- Blood lead testing. Parents or guardians who are concerned about possible exposure may contact their healthcare provider or local health department about blook lead testing.
Learn More
Additional information about checking your home’s plumbing, reducing exposure, and finding certified laboratories for water testing is available through the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. Click the button below to access the information.
We understand that receiving a notice related to potential lead exposure can raise questions or concerns. Our goal is to provide clear and accurate information while continuing efforts to verify service line materials and update our records.
For questions or additional information, please contact Water and Sewer Manager, Corey Henson, at (540) 261-1444.