In 1991, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set rules to control lead in drinking water through the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) within the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Lead contamination in drinking water may result from corrosion of plumbing materials. Water systems are required by the LCR to control the corrosivity of the water. Water systems are required to collect samples from taps in older homes (typically built before 1988) where lead pipes may be present.

In 2021, additional regulatory requirements were introduced by the EPA when they published the Lead and Copper Rule Revision (LCRR).

New requirements in the revision include:

• Complete service line inventory to locate and replace lead pipes
• Strengthening requirements to control pipe corrosion
• Enhanced sampling techniques to improve sample analysis reliability
• Improved public education and outreach materials
• Prioritizing protection of children through sampling of schools and childcare facilities

Meridian has been monitoring for lead in drinking water per the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) since 1991. The City has not exceeded the regulatory action levels for lead or copper.

As of 2024, Meridian has completed its water service line inventory requirement. The City's water system service lines are non-lead and do not need service line replacement.

Service lines are the water pipes owned by the water system from the water main in the street up to the water meter. The service line also includes the privately-owned portion of the water line between the water meter and the home.

Meridian’s service line material inventory is available below. Instructions on how to access the service line material will be in future Water Quality Reports ».

Lead is not in Meridian’s drinking water supplies. Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials containing lead begin to corrode. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. When tap water comes into continuous contact with lead pipes, copper pipes with lead solder, or other leaded materials, lead from the piping may leach out into the drinking water.

Homes with service lines made of or with lead are the most significant source of lead found in drinking water. Lead pipes are more likely in older cities and homes built before 1988.

A Message from the EPA

Elevated levels of lead in humans can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead occurrence in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with water service lines and home plumbing fixtures. Lead can enter drinking water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Although the City of Meridian is responsible for providing high-quality drinking water, it cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. If you reside in a residence where you feel lead plumbing components have been used, minimize your exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or using for cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or the EPA at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead ».