When you think of a home renovation, replacing your lead pipe line may not be at the top of your list. A kitchen remodel or siding project may enhance the look of your home—but a pipe line upgrade will significantly improve your health!

Lead poisoning is a common and serious threat in homes all throughout the country. Even with water filters installed onto your faucets, lead can still pass through your water pipes and get into your drinking water. Lead pipe lines have been linked to disturbing health problems, especially among children. 

The U.S EPA recommends homeowners take the proper precautions to protect their drinking water. If you’re a Chicago homeowner, one of those precautions should be taking advantage of the Lead & Copper Rule Revision (LCRR), effective March 16, 2021. 

The Equity Program

The City of Chicago has moved forward with The Equity Program, an initiative to replace around 400,000 lead service lines throughout the city. The program waves up to $3,100 in permit fees for homeowners who are interested in replacing their lead service line with a copper line. Those interested must be planning a line replacement independent of a home renovation. 

To qualify for the Equity Program, homeowners must meet the following criteria:

  • Live in the home that needs a line replacement 
  • Consistently test at 15 parts per billion of lead in household water (testing is free on behalf of Department of Water Management)
  • Have a household income below 80% of the area median income ($72,800 for a family of 4)

Process of Replacing a Lead Line

Replacing your service line may seem like a daunting task at first. The good news is you won’t have to handle any of the complicated stuff. The line specialists at John Baethke & Son Plumbing know how to replace your lead line professionally, following all code regulations and restrictions. 

Installing a new copper service line requires us to dig down into the street and into your property. Water lines typically run under the lawn and parkway, leading out to the street. We’ll excavate a trench to reach your lead line, remove it, and install a new copper service line, as well as a water meter to help you save on monthly water bills. 

Call John Baethke & Son Plumbing Today to Learn More About The Equity Program

Your family’s health is our top priority. If you’re a Chicago homeowner who wants to upgrade their water system—John Baethke & Son Plumbing is the team to call! We offer kitchen water filters, as well as whole home water filtration systems to make sure your home’s plumbing system is safe, secure, and functioning properly. 

Over our 28 years in business we’ve completed more than 250,000 pipe, drain, and water heater jobs. We also offer kitchen and whole home water filtration systems. Rest assured that when working with us, you’re working with a team of experienced professionals who know how to get the job done! Call us today to learn more about how we can help you take advantage of the Equity Program.