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Lead was widely used in plumbing materials for decades because it was durable, flexible, and easy to work with. As a result, many older buildings in New York City still contain lead components.

Lead can enter drinking water when:

• Water flows through lead service lines

• Plumbing joints contain lead solder

• Old brass fixtures release small amounts of lead

• Interior pipes begin to corrode

Even if the city’s source water is lead-free, it can pick up lead as it travels through these materials.

Which NYC Buildings Are Most Likely to Have Lead Pipes

The age of the building is the biggest factor in determining risk.

Buildings constructed before 1960

• Highest likelihood of lead service lines

• Common in brownstones and prewar apartment buildings

• More likely to have original plumbing components

Buildings constructed between 1960 and 1986

• May contain lead solder and fixtures

• Some service lines may still be lead

Buildings built after 1986

• Lower risk of lead plumbing

• Lead was banned from new plumbing materials in 1986

However, even newer buildings can contain brass fixtures or partial plumbing replacements that affect water quality.

Types of Lead Plumbing Found in Older Buildings

Lead service lines

These pipes connect the building to the city’s water main. They are one of the most significant sources of lead contamination.

Lead solder

Used to join copper pipes together. Common in plumbing installed before 1986.

Brass fixtures

Faucets, valves, and fittings may contain small amounts of lead, especially in older systems.

Signs Your Building May Have Lead PipesWhile you cannot see lead in water, certain clues may suggest older plumbing:

• Building constructed before 1986

• No record of plumbing upgrades

• Original pipes in basement or utility areas

• Discolored or metallic-tasting water

• Previous reports of lead in the building

However, these signs are not conclusive. Testing is the only way to confirm lead in your water.

How to Check if Your Building Has Lead Pipes

1. Ask your landlord or building management

Request information about:

• Service line materials

• Plumbing upgrades

• Previous water test results

2. Check city records

NYC provides resources that may indicate the type of service line connected to your building.

3. Inspect visible pipes

In some cases, you may be able to see the service line where it enters the building. A licensed plumber can help identify the material.

4. Test your tap water

This is the most reliable method. NYC offers free lead testing kits to residents.

What to Do If Your Building Has Lead PipesIf lead plumbing is present, take these steps to reduce exposure.

Short-term protection

• Use an NSF-certified lead-removal filter

• Flush the tap for 30–60 seconds before use

• Use only cold water for drinking and cooking

• Clean faucet aerators regularly

Long-term solutions

• Replace lead service lines

• Upgrade interior plumbing

• Work with building management on replacement plans

Pipe replacement is the only permanent fix.

Special Considerations for Renters

Many NYC residents are renters and may not control plumbing decisions. If you suspect lead pipes:

• Test your tap water

• Share results with your landlord

• Request plumbing inspections

• Contact 311 if issues are not addressed

Using a certified filter is the most practical short-term solution for renters.

How Often You Should Test Water in Older Buildings

If your building may contain lead pipes:

• Test every 6 to 12 months

• Test after plumbing repairs

• Test when moving into a new unit

Regular testing helps track any changes in water quality.

Common Myths About Lead Pipes in NYC

“All NYC buildings have lead pipes”

Not true. Many buildings have had service lines replaced.

“Clear water means it’s safe”

Lead is invisible and tasteless.

“Boiling water removes lead”

Boiling does not remove lead and may increase concentration.

Final Thoughts

Many older buildings in New York City still contain lead plumbing components, especially those built before 1960. While the city’s source water is considered high quality, aging pipes inside buildings can affect what comes out of the tap.

If you live in an older property, testing your water is the most important first step. From there, using a certified filter and planning for pipe replacement can help protect your household.

Understanding your building’s plumbing and staying proactive with testing are key to maintaining safe drinking water in NYC.