Curb Box Inspections

In order to remove lead service lines from our water distribution system, we must first find out where they are located. To do this, we have established a Curb Box Inspection Program to generate an inventory of lead service lines and their locations through the PWSA water distribution system.

Water service lines are a joint responsibility shared by PWSA and the homeowner. PWSA owns the portion of the service line that runs from the water main in the street to the curb. The remainder of the line that connects from the curb to the home is considered private property.

Curb Box Inspection Process

A “curb box inspection” is completed by sending a camera down into the curb box, or the vertical shaft found in the front yard or sidewalk leading down to the curb stop. Our contractors can take pictures and inspect the curb stop to see if the pipe is made of lead, or a non-lead material.

A letter indicating their findings will be sent to residents after the inspections are completed. This process is faster and more cost-effective than digging up the service line for inspection.

If any portion of your service line is lead, PWSA recommends you reduce your risk of lead exposure by immediately following the flushing and filtering recommendations found on our website.

Curb box inspection data will be used in the lead service line replacement program. Our goal is to replace all lead service lines in the PWSA water distribution system. We cannot get to every service line immediately, but if you want to learn more about the quality of your water, you can request a free lead test kit by going to www.pgh2o.com/leadform or by calling the PWSA Lead Help Desk at 412.255.8987.