Message from the Director of the Department of Water and Sewer Utilities Kareem Adeem:

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In January 2024, the City of Newark and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) were advised of concerns that, in some cases, third parties hired to replace lead service lines in Newark may not have complied with all requirements for full line replacement (ex., from the water meter inside a home to the water main in the street). In response, Newark and NJDEP immediately launched an audit to identify affected properties and commence inspections to verify compliance with lead service line replacement requirements to ensure the continued safety of all residents.

Between January 19 and February 1, 2024, Newark and NJDEP conducted initial inspections at four properties where lead service lines should have been replaced in full. At three of the four properties, some remaining lead components were found on the street side, between the curb and water main. These remaining lead components were immediately replaced.

Newark and NJDEP will continue this audit over the next several weeks. During this time, some residents may be contacted by Newark to participate in an inspection to verify the full replacement of their lead service line. If and where any remaining lead components are identified, they will be immediately replaced.

Importantly, NJDEP has confirmed that Newark’s corrosion control treatment has been optimized to protect residents whose water may come in contact with plumbing that may still contain lead components. Newark has demonstrated compliance with the federal lead and copper rule. Unless you are contacted by Newark to participate in an inspection of your service line, there is nothing you need to do at this time. This notice is part of our promise to you to keep you informed.

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