At the beginning of October, PWSA announced a new addition to its Community Lead Response. We will reimburse up to 100% of eligible costs for a private lead service line replacement. By following a few easy steps, PWSA’s water service customers can work with a private plumber to complete private side lead service line replacements and receive a minimum of a $1,000 reimbursement.   

Those who are concerned about a lead service line at their property can complete the work quickly while PWSA works towards its goal of systematically replacing all lead service lines by 2026. This program is an expansion of our existing private lead service line replacement offerings, with more income eligibility tiers available. 

Water service lines are a joint responsibility, with the portion between the water main and the curb box belonging to PWSA and the portion from the curb box to the home belonging to the homeowner. Our Reimbursement Program will reimburse the costs of a privately-owned lead service line replacement. If your private plumber discovers a publicly-owned lead service line attached to the private line, they will coordinate with us to replace the public line at the same time.

Reimbursement Process

1. Contact Dollar Energy Fund at 866-762-2348. Dollar Energy Fund will confirm your income to determine your reimbursement amount.
2. Hire a plumber. You can choose from PWSA’s list of approved plumbers, who have agreed to PWSA’s program guidelines, making the process easier for you.
3. Complete and submit estimate. Meet with your plumber so the plumber can complete an estimate form to submit to our PWSA Lead Help staff.
4. Replace the lead service line. Your plumber will complete the work and then the PWSA Lead Help staff will provide you with flushing instructions, a pitcher filter, and a test kit for your water after construction.
5. Complete and submit invoice. Your plumber will submit the final invoice to PWSA for reimbursement of the eligible costs.

To simplify the process, PWSA has coordinated with local licensed plumbers to compile a list of companies that will complete the work on the terms set out by PWSA. If customers work with an approved PWSA plumber, the plumber will agree to hold off on any charges until reimbursement. This means customers will not have to pay for eligible costs up front while waiting to be reimbursed. While we believe working with these plumbers will make the process easier, customers may work with any licensed plumber they choose. 

For more information, visit lead.pgh2o.com/LeadReimbursement.