Getting notices about lead service line replacement in Waukegan and not sure what it means for your home? You are not alone. Many homeowners have questions about timing, costs, and how to keep water use safe during and after the work. This guide explains what is driving replacements, how the Waukegan program works, and the simple steps you can take before and after construction. Let’s dive in.
Why replacements are happening
The U.S. EPA finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements in October 2024, which accelerates finding and replacing lead service lines nationwide and sets a national expectation for full replacement within about 10 years after compliance dates. You can read the rule details on the EPA’s page for Lead and Copper Rule Improvements. Learn more about the LCRI.
Illinois also requires water systems to inventory service line materials and create replacement plans under the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act. See Illinois guidance. Locally, Lake County Public Works and municipalities are building public inventories and maps to help identify and prioritize replacements. View Lake County’s “Lead and Your Water Supply” resources.
Waukegan’s program at a glance
Waukegan received a zero‑percent State Revolving Fund loan of about 4,025,506 dollars to replace roughly 400 lead service lines. See the state funding announcement. Current public materials indicate the city and its contractor will replace the service from the first shutoff valve inside the house, or at least 18 inches inside the building, out to the water main. The city states it will restore disturbed areas and provide a 12‑month workmanship and material warranty, and that this phase is offered at no cost to participating residents. Homeowner consent and access are required. Check Waukegan’s program page.
What to expect step by step
Before work begins
- The city will verify your service line material through records, inspections, and homeowner photos or a brief preconstruction visit.
- You will receive outreach and a consent form to allow work on private property and to schedule appointments.
- You may be asked to submit photos or schedule an interior check of the meter area.
Scheduling and access
- You will be given an appointment window for inspection and for the replacement day.
- Plan to be home or arrange interior access so crews can reach the first shutoff valve.
- The contractor will review timing, expected shutdown, and any prep steps with you.
The on‑site work
- Crews typically make a small excavation near your foundation or basement entry and another in the parkway or street to access the main.
- They replace the service piping, valves, and fittings, then reconnect and pressure test.
- Expect a temporary water shutoff during the tie‑over. Many homes experience only a few hours without water, but complex conditions can extend that window.
After the work
- The contractor restores disturbed surfaces as nearly as practicable to prior condition, then the 12‑month warranty period begins for covered work.
- You will receive post‑work instructions, including flushing guidance and any sampling information if applicable.
- Keep all documents and photos from the project in your home records.
Health and safety tips
Disturbing lead piping can temporarily increase lead levels in water, especially if only part of a lead service line is replaced. Full replacement is the goal, and Illinois rules include notice procedures when a partial replacement occurs. Review Illinois information on lead service line replacements.
Simple steps to reduce risk:
- Follow all notices from the city and contractor about timing, shutoffs, and when to use water again.
- Flush after the work. Utilities often recommend running cold water at high flow for a set time and repeating flushing over the next few weeks. Ask the city for your home’s recommended protocol. See practical flushing guidance.
- Use only cold water for drinking and cooking, since hot water can pull more lead from plumbing. EPA’s LCRI Q&A covers safe-use tips.
- Consider a point‑of‑use filter certified for lead reduction as an interim measure, and replace cartridges on schedule. Look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification. Review research on filter performance.
- If you want added peace of mind, ask the city or health department about post‑replacement sampling and local certified labs. EPA’s Q&A explains testing considerations.
Costs, timelines, and refusals
- Costs: Waukegan’s current funded phase is described as no cost for participating homeowners, but future phases can depend on available grants or loans. Confirm details when the city contacts you. Program details are posted here.
- Timeline: On‑site work at a typical home often wraps in a day, though restoration and scheduling can extend the overall process.
- Refusals and emergencies: If you decline non‑emergency access, your replacement could be delayed. In emergencies where a full swap is not possible, Illinois requires specific notices and procedures for partial replacements. See required notifications.
How this affects buying or selling in Waukegan
If you are planning a sale, confirming your service line material early can help you avoid last‑minute surprises. Use the county resources to understand your line type, then enroll in the city program if you qualify. Keep your consent forms, completion letter, and warranty details organized so you can share them with buyers. Start with Lake County’s resources and Waukegan’s project page for sign‑up information. View Waukegan’s program.
If you are buying, ask the seller or your inspector about the service line material and whether a replacement is scheduled or already completed. Request any post‑replacement instructions or sampling results. Clear documentation helps you move in with confidence and a plan for safe water use.
Thinking about a move and want local guidance on how lead line replacement may affect your timeline or negotiations? Reach out to Julie Towne for a calm, concierge approach to buying and selling in Lake County.
FAQs
What will Waukegan replace on my property?
- The city’s materials state crews replace the service from the first interior shutoff valve, or at least 18 inches inside, out to the water main, with restoration and a 12‑month workmanship and material warranty.
Do I have to pay for the replacement in the current phase?
- Public program information describes the current funded phase as no cost to participating residents, but you should confirm terms when the city schedules your work.
How long will my water be off during replacement?
- Many homes experience only a few hours of interruption during the tie‑in, but complex conditions can extend that window, so plan for flexibility on your installation day.
Should I use a filter after the work?
- A certified point‑of‑use filter labeled for lead reduction, NSF/ANSI Standard 53, can be a helpful interim step when used and maintained according to manufacturer instructions.
What if I refuse access for a non‑emergency replacement?
- Your replacement could be delayed, and in emergencies a partial replacement could occur with required notifications under Illinois rules.
