The City of Wheeling’s Water Department is continuing its Lead Service Line Inventory as required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. While many customers completed the survey earlier this year, officials are asking those who have not yet responded to provide information about the service line entering their home. Water customers will receive letters in the coming days with detailed instructions on how to participate.

Water Superintendent Lori Siburt explained that a service line is the water line running from the meter or from the property line into a home.

 “We are asking residents to help us identify the material used on the customer-owned portion of the line. This inventory must be submitted every year, so it is an ongoing effort,” she said, noting the Water Department has completed an inventory of all city-owned service lines and is working on replacing all lead and galvanized lines on the city-owned side of the system.

Completing the inventory involves a simple three-step process: locate your service line; identify the service line material; and report the results.

Residents who prefer to submit information online may complete the survey at: https://www.wheelingwv.gov/WaterServiceLineInventory. Hard copies are available by calling 304-234-3849 or emailing water@wheelingwv.gov.

The survey webpage includes guidance for homeowners who are unsure how to identify their service line material.

Siburt emphasized that the presence of a lead pipe does not automatically mean a household is exposed to lead. 

“The Wheeling Water Department uses an anti-corrosion treatment that coats the inside of pipes and fixtures with a protective layer, which significantly reduces the potential for metals to leach into the water,” she said. “However, the most effective long-term solution is to remove and replace lead service lines.”

Residents with questions about the inventory or the survey process are encouraged to contact the Water Department at 304-234-3849 or water@wheelingwv.gov.