Quick Guide to Determine Your Service Line Material

1. Complete the scratch test: Use a coin or a key to gently scratch the pipe (use the same pressure you would for a lottery ticket). Do not use a knife or other sharp tool to avoid puncturing the pipe. If the pipe is painted, corroded or oxidized, be sure the scratch exposes the metal underneath. Excessive scratching is not needed, just expose the metal for this test.

   To complete the scratch test, after the metal is exposed, take note of the color of the pipe and touch a magnet to it, noting if the magnet sticks.

2. Use the table below to help identify your service line material.

   Pipe Material	Copper	Lead	Galvanized Steel	Plastic
   When Scratched, Pipe color	Orange like a penny	Shiny silver, like a nickel	Dull Gray	Blue, Black or White
   Does a magnet stick?	No	No	Yes	No
   Photo

To report your service line material or if you are unsure as to what your water service line material is, please reference the steps above to take a photo of your water meter and the pipe going into the ground or through the foundation wall and email it to: PWWaterQuality@provwater.com.

For questions regarding your service line call Providence Water’s Water Quality Hotline at 401-521-6303.

If you do have a lead service line, Providence Water strongly encourages you to have it removed. Click HERE to learn more about our Lead Service Line Replacement Programs.

Lead Information Video