Water Service Line Self-Inspection Instructions

An illustration of an open book with a gear symbol and a hand pointing at the text, suggesting instruction or guidance.

Please follow the instructions below to determine the water service line material and submit the results by clicking the link in Step 4. 

Step 1 - Locate the Water Service Line 

Water service lines are typically found coming into the location at the lowest level of the building.

The water service line usually comes into the building either through the basement floor or low on the wall of the foundation.

If the location does not have a basements/foundation, the line will likely be located within a crawl space or utility closet.

The water service line will be connected to the water meter.

If you are unable to locate the water service line, please contact us.

Step 2 - Determine the Material 

For this step, you will need a magnet and a *coin to test & compare the service line material.

– Magnet Test –
Place the magnet on the water service line.
Note whether the magnet sticks or falls off, as this will help determine the material type.

– Scratch Test –
Take the coin, place it so the side is touching the pipe; scratch through any corrosion that may have built up on the outside of the pipe.
Note what the scratches look like as well as the color of the pipe.

– Compare –
Use the info gathered from the Magnet Test & the Scratch Test to compare with the examples below

*A flathead screwdriver or a house key can be used instead of a coin to perform the scratch test. Do not use a sharp object to perform the scratch test, and be careful not to puncture a hole in the pipe.

Image of blue line that is used to separate text sections.

COPPER

  • Appearance: Copper pipe is the color of a penny. Older copper may have some green or blue color to it.
  • Scratch Test: Will be the same color as a penny.
  • Magnet Test: Will NOT stick.
The image shows two copper pipes, one with a bend and signs of oxidation, suggesting they may be used or have been stored.

 

PLASTIC

  • Appearance: Pipe is smooth and usually white, black, red, or blue.
  • Scratch Test: Not easily scratched.
  • Magnet Test: Will NOT stick.
The image shows a curved black pipe secured with metal clamps, appearing worn and weathered.

 

GALVANIZED

  • Appearance: Galvanized steel pipe is black, dull gray, or silver with threaded ends.
  • Scratch Test: Will have no noticeable scratches on the surface.
  • Magnet Test: WILL Stick.
The image shows two metal pipes, one dark and worn, the other lighter and smoother, both with threaded ends.

 

LEAD
While the use of lead pipes and solder became banned in 1986, older homes may still find lead present in the original plumbing.

  • Appearance: Lead pipe is dull gray or silver and soft.
  • Scratch Test: There will be a noticeable shiny scratch on the surface.
  • Magnet Test: Will NOT stick.
The image shows a curved tool with a metal fitting, possibly used for specific applications like crafting or mechanical work.

 

Step 3 - Take a Photo 

After completing the scratch & magnet test, take a picture showing the material of the water service line after completing the scratch test. 
The scratched surface (on the section of the pipe between where the pipe enters the property and the water meter) should be visible in the photo.

Step 4 - Submit Results 

Questions? Contact Us

Join our mailing list