Philadelphia lead service line replacement
Short answer
Philadelphia Water Department replaces lead service lines free during planned water main construction. Otherwise, owners can use the HELP program: a zero-interest loan repaid over 60 months on the water bill, for residential properties of up to four units.
- Official sources
- Last checked:
- Free, no sign-up
| Utility | Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) |
|---|---|
| Program | HELP zero-interest loan + main-replacement program |
| Type | Zero-interest loan / free during main work |
| Phone | 215-685-4901 (HELP) |
| Official page | water.phila.gov/lead/replacement-help/ |
Who qualifies
- Residential, no more than four units
- Water bill current (no more than two billing cycles owed, or a current payment agreement)
- Operable water meter
- Confirmed lead service line (no Notice of Defect needed)
How to apply
- Check PWD's Service Line Map; report material if it is unknown
- Email [email protected] or call 215-685-4901 to apply for HELP
- Loan payments appear on your water bill over 60 months
Good to know
PWD plans a pilot replacing about 1,000 lead lines in North and West Philadelphia beginning in 2026.
More official links: PWD Lead page
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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