Michigan · statewide
Lead service line replacement in Michigan
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
Michigan's revised Lead and Copper Rule makes water systems replace every lead service line at an average of 5% a year, finishing within 20 years (2041) unless EGLE approves another schedule. The full line, including the part on private property, is replaced at the water system's expense regardless of ownership, and partial replacements are banned except in emergencies.
What Michigan requires or changes
Water supplies with lead service lines must replace them at an average rate of 5% per year, not to exceed 20 years, or on an alternate schedule approved by EGLE. [1]
The full lead service line must be replaced at the water supply's expense, regardless of ownership. [1]
Partial lead service line replacement is no longer allowed except during an emergency repair. [1]
What 'regardless of ownership' means for you
In most states the owner pays for the private side of a service line. Michigan's rule shifts the full replacement cost to the water system, so a Michigan homeowner with a lead line generally shouldn't pay a plumber to replace it privately. Ask your utility for your line's recorded material and its replacement schedule first.
How Michigan cities are carrying it out
Detroit, Grand Rapids and other systems schedule replacements block by block. See lead service lines in Detroit for one city's program, and the lead service line guide for identifying your pipe.
When a lead line breaks
An emergency repair can involve a partial replacement, the rule's one exception. If your line leaks, call the utility first; it should follow up with full replacement. A plumber handles anything inside the house.
Common questions
Who pays for lead service line replacement in Michigan?
The water system pays for replacing the full line, regardless of ownership.
What is Michigan's deadline for replacing lead lines?
Water systems must finish within 20 years at an average of 5% per year, around 2041, unless EGLE approves another schedule.
Can a Michigan utility replace only part of a lead line?
Not except during an emergency repair; partial replacement is otherwise banned.
What should a Michigan homeowner do before hiring a plumber for a lead line?
Ask the water system first; it is responsible for full replacement at its expense.
Which agency oversees Michigan's lead rule?
EGLE, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
Why does Michigan ban partial lead line replacement?
Cutting a lead line and leaving part in place can disturb lead and raise levels without removing the source.
My Michigan service line leaked. Will it be fully replaced?
An emergency repair can be partial; ask the utility when the full replacement will follow.
Does Michigan's rule cover pipes inside my house?
It covers the service line; interior plumbing is the owner's responsibility.
Does Michigan require lead line replacement even if my water tests fine?
Yes. Systems with lead lines must replace them regardless of lead action level results.
Can EGLE change a Michigan city's replacement schedule?
Yes. An alternate schedule can be approved as part of an asset management plan.
Water Line Repair across Michigan
- Water Line Repair in DetroitHow Detroit and Michigan law handle lead water service line replacement: who pays, full-line requirements, timelines, and what homeowners should do meanwhile.
- Water Line Repair: the full guideSigns the water service line from the meter to your house is leaking, who owns it, repair vs. replacement, lead lines, and trenchless options.
- Plumbing in MichiganMichigan's plumbing code, licensing, climate and the cities we cover.
The same service in other states
- Lead and galvanized service line replacement in New JerseyNew Jersey's lead service line law: every lead and galvanized line replaced by July 2031 at a 10% yearly average, no partial replacements, and what owners should do.
- Lead service line replacement in IllinoisIllinois' lead line law: inventories, notice before work, no partial replacements, and deadlines from 2042 to 2077 by system size.
Sources (1)
- Michigan EGLE, 2018 Lead and Copper Rule revision summary · checked 2026-10-03