Healthy People in Healthy Communities
Lead Poisoning Prevention
Is There Lead in My Drinking Water?
Portland has removed all known lead service connections from its distribution system, and its water supply consistently meets or surpasses all federal and state drinking water standards.
However, if your home was built between 1970 and 1985, there's a chance that lead solder may have been used to join your plumbing. Furthermore, even new homes may be at risk: by law “lead-free” plumbing may contain up to 8 percent lead. The most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water, especially hot water.
Testing Your Water for Lead
If you want to know if your home’s drinking water contains unsafe levels of lead, have your water tested. Testing is the only way to confirm if lead is present or absent.
Customers of the Portland Water Bureau (and other water districts) may request a free water test kit. Call the Leadline at 503-988-4000 or contact us online. The Leadline staff may call you to follow-up on your online request.
More Information
Portland Water Bureau
Water Quality Report »
Questions?
Call the Leadline
503-988-4000
The Leadline provides information and referrals for local lead programs and services.
Spanish, Russian, and Vietnamese interpreters are available.
Page updated March 3, 2010