How does lead get into tap water?

Lead can get in water from watermains, service lines and household plumbing parts that contain lead (e.g., pipes, solder, fixtures). The most common source of lead is from lead pipes used to deliver water to homes built before 1960. These pipes were phased out in the late 1950s. Older homes (generally ones built before 1960) are more likely to have lead parts.

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1. Why is testing taking place?
2. How will I know if I’m selected?
3. Is our drinking water safe?
4. How does lead get into tap water?
5. Does it matter when my house was built?
6. What steps can I take to mitigate lead in drinking water?