LAKEWOOD, N.J. — Residents in portions of Lakewood Township may notice workers going door-to-door over the coming weeks as New Jersey American Water expands its Lead Service Line Replacement Program.
The utility announced that crews from engineering contractor CDM Smith are currently canvassing homes in the West County Line area and the Oak Street/Chestnut Street neighborhoods to identify properties that may have lead or galvanized steel water service lines.
The work is part of New Jersey American Water’s statewide compliance with a 2021 New Jersey law requiring all public water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized service lines by 2031.
A service line is the pipe that connects a water main beneath the street to a home or business. The line includes both the utility-owned section and the portion owned by the property owner.
Residents may either self-identify their service line by submitting photographs to New Jersey American Water or schedule a free in-person inspection.
- New Jersey American Water crews are canvassing portions of Lakewood.
- The program supports New Jersey’s requirement to replace lead service lines by 2031.
- Inspections are free and typically take about 15 minutes.
- Canvassers will carry identification and will never request financial or personal information.
Free inspections available
According to the utility, authorized canvassers will wear high-visibility vests displaying both the New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and carry official identification.
Officials emphasized that inspectors will never ask homeowners for sensitive financial information, payment or personal documentation during their visit.
Informational materials explaining the inspection process are being distributed directly to potentially affected customers in multiple languages.
Water remains safe to use
New Jersey American Water said customers can continue using their water normally while inspections and replacement work are underway.
The utility stated that its drinking water continues to meet all state and federal water quality standards, including regulations governing lead.
Officials also noted that all inspections and replacement work are performed exclusively by New Jersey American Water or its authorized contractors—not Lakewood Township or any other government agency—although the effort has been coordinated with township officials to improve public awareness.
Residents can learn more, view the interactive service line inventory map or determine their service line material by visiting www.newjerseyamwater.com/leadfacts.
Questions may also be directed to the New Jersey American Water Lead Team at leadfreenj@amwater.com or by calling 732-590-4700.
FAQ
- Why are workers visiting homes in Lakewood?
They are identifying properties that may have lead or galvanized water service lines as part of New Jersey American Water’s replacement program. - Will inspectors ask for payment or personal information?
No. The utility says authorized canvassers will never request sensitive financial or personal information. - Is Lakewood’s drinking water safe?
Yes. New Jersey American Water says its drinking water continues to meet all applicable state and federal water quality standards.
Source: New Jersey American Water, Lakewood Township
