Understanding the Water Service Line Notices in Asheville

Residents in Asheville have been receiving letters from the Water Resources Department stating, "Your service line is of unknown service line material." This has caused confusion and concern among customers, especially those in newer homes or areas affected by recent events like Hurricane Helene.

The Real Reason Behind the Letters

According to Asheville Water Resources Department spokesperson Clay Chandler, these letters are part of an annual notice required by environmental regulators. They are not related to Helene but are mandated by the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule to build an inventory of service lines. Importantly, no lead service lines have been found in the city's system, and the water is safe.

Key Points from the FAQ

• Why am I receiving this letter? Homes built before 1988 (when lead was banned in plumbing) are targeted, but even newer homes might get letters if the utility's inventory is incomplete.
• What should I do? No immediate action is needed, but customers can request a free lead test kit from City Hall or contact a plumber if they choose to replace their service line.
• Is my water safe? Yes, the city maintains that its corrosion control treatment is effective, and testing has shown no lead issues.

Additional Community Concerns Addressed

The article also covers other local issues, such as the Montford Avenue bridge over I-240, which has been damaged by vehicle strikes but is structurally sound and under repair by NCDOT. Additionally, a protest disruption by fire trucks was confirmed to be a legitimate response to a fire alarm call, not an intentional act.

For more details, visit the city's Lead Awareness website.