Where to Test for Lead Pipes

Lead Free Roseau

Requirements

The Minnesota Department of Health is requiring all public water systems to document what material the water service to the homes and businesses are made of. The goal is to identify if any services are lead. The City of Roseau's water system was heavily reconstructed after the flood of 2022, so there are likely very few lead water services still remaining in the community, though some water systems in older homes may contain lead lines.

Service Pipe Inspection

The City of Roseau is required to document the material of all water services. To complete this task, the City is requesting residents submit information about their water service or arrange an inspection by the City. By submitting the information, the City does not need to arrange an inspection to come into your home and this saves time and money, and is less disruptive to residents. If, for any reason, residents cannot perform the inspection or need help to identify the water service material, they can contact the City at 218-463-2351 to arrange an inspection. If the City does not hear from residents by April of 2024, the City will reach out directly to residents to arrange for an inspection. The City inspector will come to your house and do a quick inspection which should only take a minute or two.

Of the 100 or so water services documented to date, none have been lead.

How to Help

Residents can help the City meet this mandatory requirement by doing a quick inspection and submitting the information. Follow the steps outlined below. If you have any questions about the process or if this is too difficult, contact the City at 218-463-2351 to ask questions or to arrange an inspection.

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to inspect your service.

Step 1 – Locate the water service line - Locate where the water service line enters the building. You'll need to see where the pipe comes through the floor or wall - this will be in the basement or lowest floor near the water shut-off valve/water meter.

Step 2 – Identify the pipe material - Refer to the chart below for more information. Look at the color and shape of the pipe. Note any threads or bulb. Scratch pipe with a coin or key to reveal the metal. You may need to scratch through corrosion or paint. See if a magnet sticks to the pipe. A magnet will not stick to a lead pipe.

Step 3 – Take up to 3 photos - Take photos of the pipe coming through the floor or wall, closer view of the pipe with scratch showing metal and a broader view of the service pipe that includes the shut-off valve/meter connection.

Step 4 – Submit your information using one of these methods:

Email lead@city.roseau.mn.us , or
Call Angie Vonasek at 218.463.2351.
Please provide the following information: Property Address, Service Line Material (if known), 3 photos of service line, and contact information

A table shows the differences between different metals used for water pipes.

If Your Service is Lead

Although unlikely, if you identify your water service is lead, the City will arrange an inspection to confirm this. If the City confirms it is lead, the City will provide information and resources about lead replacement.