How can I tell if I have a lead pipe?

You may be able to see part of the service pipe in your basement, near the water meter. Lead pipes are dull gray in color. If you lightly scrape the surface of the pipe, the metal underneath will be shiny and silver. Copper water pipes are usually bronze-red in color and made of a very hard metal. If you think your service pipe contains lead, have your water tested.

Contact a plumber or building inspector to determine if your home's pipes are indeed made of lead.