The Rockville Centre Water Department is urging residents to review the material of their water service lines as part of the village’s ongoing public health efforts and in compliance with the updated federal Lead and Copper Rule.
The announcement was posted on the Village of Rockville Centre’s Facebook page and app and was reiterated by Trustee Gregory P. Shaughnessy during the Board of Trustees meeting on Jan. 5.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s rule requires water providers across New York State to identify and inventory water service lines on all properties, particularly those installed before 1988. Water service lines, which connect buildings to the public water main, are the responsibility of property owners to maintain and replace.
Materials used in these lines can include lead, copper, galvanized steel, or plastic. The village’s water system is carefully monitored to meet federal, state, and county regulations, with a corrosion control program in place to reduce the risk of harmful materials entering the water supply.
In recent weeks, the Water Department has mailed letters to residents and business owners indicating whether their service line is made of lead, galvanized steel, or if the material is unknown. The department is encouraging property owners with unknown service line materials to either submit a photo or schedule an inspection to help confirm the line.
“If lead is confirmed, replacement of the service line from the water main to the home is the responsibility of the property owner,” the water department wrote in its message.
The EPA requires notifications to inform residents of potential lead risks, especially in older service lines. If a service line cannot be confirmed through records or inspection, it is classified as lead, even if the section inside the home is copper.
“I think it’s very important for anybody young and old that may have a lead line in place to address it and do not ignore the dangers that are associated with a long-term exposure to lead,” Shaughnessy said during the meeting.
Residents who have already replaced their service lines are asked to submit a copy of the permit to update the Water Department’s records.
“This initiative reflects the Village’s commitment to transparency and ensuring safe, reliable drinking water for all residents,” the water department wrote.
Residents needing assistance or wishing to arrange an inspection can call 516-678-9302.
“If anyone needs assistance or has any further questions on this, please don’t hesitate to call our water department,” Shaughnessy said. “They are more than happy to come out to your home and help you understand what it is that you have.”
