Research
Lead in Drinking Water
Lead is a toxic metal that poses serious health risks, and there is no safe level of lead in the human body. Lead is particularly dangerous for young children and pregnant women, as lead exposure can affect brain development, behavior, and long-term health issues.
Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials containing lead corrode. Common source of lead plumbing includes lead service lines, lead solder joints— pipes that connect homes to the water main— and plumbing fixtures. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead service lines. Even without lead service lines, lead can still leach into water from older brass or chrome plated faucets and lead-based solder used in plumbing. Regulations have restricted the amount of lead allowed in new pipes, fixtures, and solder, but many homes still face risks from legacy lead infrastructure.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) for lead in drinking water at zero. However, the EPA’s action level—the threshold that triggers required corrective measures—is 15 micrograms per liter (µg/L). This limit does not indicate a safe level but signals utilities to take action to reduce lead levels.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uses a Blood Lead Reference Value (BLRV) of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) to identify children who have higher levels of lead in their blood compared with most children. Multiple studies have shown a positive correlation between lead level in drinking water and elevated blood lead levels.
Lead in Drinking Water Testing Initiative in Detroit
Unfortunately, you can’t see, taste, or smell lead. The only way to know if it’s in your water is to test — and we’re here to help. Our research team at the Wade Institute of Technology’s Environmental Research Center is conducting a community-based lead testing project in Detroit as part of the initiative to ensure residents have access to safe, clean drinking water.
Who Can Participate?
We’re currently offering free lead testing for residents in Detroit neighborhoods. If you live in Detroit, you may be eligible to participate — at no cost. Protect Your Family. Know What’s in Your Water.
It is Free! Sign Up Today
Why This Project Matters
This testing project is part of a larger effort to protect families from lead exposure and identify neighborhoods at risk. By participating, you’re helping us build a clearer picture of where lead contamination may be occurring — so we can take steps toward safer, healthier communities.
Ready to Test Your Water? Register Now for Free Lead Testing
How It Works
- Register Online (Eligible participant will have a chance to win a $100 gift card!)
Fill out a short form to sign up and confirm your eligibility. - Get Your Free Sampling Kit
We’ll drop off a sample bottle at your home. - Collect Your Water Sample
Follow the step-by-step guide to collect a sample from your tap — it only takes a few minutes. - We Pick It Up
Our team will return to pick up your sample at your door. - We Test It. And You Receive Your Results
Our expert team will test your water and send you your results.
Your participation helps us build a safer future, one home at a time. Ready to Get Started? Register for Free Lead Testing.
Spread the Word
Know someone who might be eligible? Share this opportunity with your neighbors and community — together, we can ensure everyone has access to safe, lead-free water.
Have questions or comments? Reach out to us at lab@wit.university
FAQ
You can’t see, taste, or smell lead in water. That’s why testing is so important — it’s the only way to know for sure if your water is safe.
Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing components containing lead begin to corrode. The main sources of lead in drinking water include lead service lines (the pipes that connect homes to the water main), as well as lead-based faucets, fixtures, and pipe solder. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have these
No, boiling water does not remove lead.
This program is organized by the Environmental Research Center at Wade Institute of Technology (WIT). We are a non-profit educational institution committed to clean water, environmental health and community science.
There is absolutely no cost to you. The testing is 100% free for eligible residents in select Detroit neighborhoods.
- Register online
- Receive a sample kit with instructions
- Collect a sample from your tap
- Our team will pick it up from your home
- Receive your results in a few weeks
It’s easy and only takes a few minutes. We’ll provide clear step-by-step instructions with your sample collection kit. No special equipment or experience is needed.
We will mail or email you a report explaining your results, what they mean, and steps you can take if lead is detected.
Yes. We only use your information to contact you about the sample kit and deliver your results. We will not share your personal data without your consent.
Yes! Whether you rent or own your home, you’re eligible as long as you live in one of the targeted neighborhoods.
Some water filters are designed to remove lead, but not all do. To be sure, choose a filter that has been tested and certified by an accredited third party. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, use, and replacement. Using an expired filter can reduce its effectiveness in removing lead. Also, avoid running hot water through the filter. For more information visit the EPA’s guide here: https://www.epa.gov/water-research/consumer-tool-identifying-pou-drinking-water-filters-certified-reduce-lead
Click the button below to fill out our quick registration form.
