A water service line is the pipe that carries drinking water from the city’s main water line in the street to your home’s water meter. It has two sections: the city-owned portion (from the main to the curb stop) and the property-owned portion (from the curb stop to the meter).

Many older homes, especially those built before the 1950s, still have lead service lines. Replacing these lines through Equiflow Racine removes a primary source of lead exposure and enhances the long-term quality and reliability of your home’s water system. ‍

Lead can enter drinking water when service lines or plumbing that contain lead corrode. Even low levels of exposure can impact health, particularly for children and pregnant individuals.

Verification can happen in two ways:

‍In-Person Inspection
An EquiFlow inspector will schedule a short visit or may stop by while canvassing. Inspectors wear identifiable vests and badges. They’ll need access to where the service line enters your home, often near the meter or in the basement.
‍
The process takes about 15 minutes and includes a quick visual check, a lightscratch and magnet test, and a few photos. If your line qualifies forreplacement, the inspector will explain next steps and review the Right ofEntry form.

‍Self-Verification Online
Prefer no visit? Complete the simple form on the EquiFlow website and upload photos of your water meter and service line. A Program Specialist will review your submission, confirm eligibility, and follow up with next steps.

Whether done in person or online, verification is quick, non-invasive, and helps move Racine toward a lead-free future.

Yes—homeowners or residents are generally asked to be present to ensure access to the water meter and interior connection points. The team will schedule your inspection in advance and provide a clear timeframe.

All personnel conducting inspections and replacements are trained professionals working under the City of Racine’s contracted program. Each team member carries proper identification and has completed background screening and safety training.

If we identify a lead service line at your property:
‍

• Don’t panic. We’ll explain the situation and leave behind clear information on next steps.

• Avoid  drinking tap water until you take steps to reduce exposure. You may still use it for bathing or cleaning, but do not cook with or consume unfiltered tap water.

• Use a certified water filter that is approved for lead removal. If you need help identifying one, our team can assist.

• Flush your pipes before using water for drinking or cooking—run cold water for at least 5 minutes.

• Clean your faucet aerators regularly to reduce sediment and trapped particles.

The ROE form gives the city and its contractors permission to enter your property to complete the replacement work. Without it, the service line cannot be replaced. Signing the ROE does not transfer the ownership; it simply authorizes the work to be done.

Lead line replacements usually take 4 to 8 hours, including work inside and outside your home. Our team works Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 7 PM. Sometimes, contractors may need access before the replacement or run into unexpected issues, which could extend the timeline.

No special maintenance is needed. Residents will receive instructions for flushing pipes and using a certified filter for a short period following replacement.

Lead pipe inspection and replacement through EquiFlow Racine is free of charge for eligible service lines. Homeowners are only asked to sign the ROE form to authorize access for the work.