Boston boosts lead pipes replacement incentive

The Boston Water and Sewer Commission recently announced that it has doubled credit for replacing lead pipes to $ 4,000 through its lead replacement incentive program.

A recent review by the Commission estimates that up to 4,800 property owners are eligible for the program. For most customers, this credit covers the total cost of replacing the lead pipes.

Lead water pipes can significantly increase a person’s exposure to lead, a toxic metal that can be harmful to human health. The water provided by BWSC and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority is unleaded when it leaves the reservoirs as the distribution pipes are mainly made of iron and steel. However, lead can enter tap water through household and internal pipes, especially if the water is left to stand for a long period of time before use. People in households and businesses built before 1950 should run their drinking water for two to three minutes if it has been stagnant for several hours before drinking or cooking to flush out any lead that may have leached into the system.

As part of the Lead Replacement Incentive Program, owners who may have lead pipes will receive a letter describing the program and be invited to contact the Commission for an evaluation and estimate. Owners are responsible for all pipes on their property. The commission grants owners 60 months interest-free to pay for replacement costs in excess of the level of the incentive. To be eligible for the program, property owners must keep their payments up to date and consent to the work being carried out by the Commission. The replacement of lead pipes is subject to availability and is offered subject to availability.

For more information about the program and other key resources, owners can visit http://bwsc.org or call 617-989-7888.

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