Texas
Lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement Program
Engineering support for water systems to inventory and replace lead service lines under EPA's lead rules.
What the work involves
EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements require community water systems to maintain service line inventories and replace lead and galvanized requiring replacement lines, generally within 10 years with limited exceptions. Engineers help build inventories from records and field verification, prioritize work, design replacement contracts, apply for funding and oversee construction.
Local conditions we plan for
- Expansive clay soils and foundation movement
- Hurricanes and coastal flooding on the Gulf Coast
- Flash flooding (Hill Country, Houston)
- Karst in the Edwards Aquifer region
Building code: 2012 IBC/IRC listed at the state level; local jurisdictions may adopt newer editions (ICC adoption chart, April 2026).
When you need it
- Water system must update its service line inventory
- Planning a replacement program
- Applying for state revolving fund or other funding
- Construction oversight for replacements
Frequently asked questions
How much does lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement Program cost?
Across the US, lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement Program usually costs $20,000 to $500,000 per program. Estimate. Depends heavily on system size and number of unknown lines.
How long does lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement Program take?
Plan on Months for inventory; years for replacement from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.
Do I need a licensed PE for lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement Program?
In most US jurisdictions, yes. When the work needs a permit, the plans, calculations or report usually must be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the state where the project is located. Every deliverable we issue for permit is sealed that way.
How do I verify an engineer's license in Texas?
Engineers practicing in Texas are licensed by the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. You can confirm a license number and its status in the board's public license search before you sign a contract.
Which building code applies in Texas?
2012 IBC/IRC listed at the state level; local jurisdictions may adopt newer editions (ICC adoption chart, April 2026). Cities and counties can add local amendments, which is one reason to hire an engineer who works in your area.
What site problems do engineers see most in Texas?
Common issues include expansive clay soils and foundation movement, hurricanes and coastal flooding on the Gulf Coast, flash flooding (Hill Country, Houston) and karst in the Edwards Aquifer region.