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What Homeowners Need To Know — And How Calfo Plumbing Can Help!

Lead in drinking water is a growing concern across Pittsburgh, especially for homeowners in older neighborhoods where water service lines may still contain lead. Many residents are receiving official notices from Pittsburgh Water confirming that their property may have a private lead service line. In many cases, homeowners are eligible for full reimbursement once a licensed plumber replaces that line and submits the proper documentation.

Calfo Home Services is listed as a participating Pittsburgh water and sewer plumbing provider and is fully qualified to inspect, test, and replace affected lines. This blog breaks down what the local lead program means for you, how Calfo can support the process, and why a simple water quality test can bring major peace of mind.


Why Pittsburgh Homes Are Still at Risk for Lead in the Water

Lead pipes were commonly used in homes built before 1986, which includes thousands of properties throughout Pittsburgh’s East End, South Hills, North Side, and older borough communities. When these pipes age, corrode, or are disturbed during construction, lead can enter household drinking water.

Local water authorities have confirmed the following in recent homeowner notices:

  • Many homes still contain lead private service lines
  • Full reimbursement may be available for eligible lead line replacement
  • Homeowners must submit an itemized invoice and inspection documents to receive reimbursement
  • Lead levels may temporarily rise after construction or pipe work, making testing even more important

For Pittsburgh families — especially those with children or seniors — testing your water is the best way to know whether your household is at risk.


Calfo’s $39.99 In-Home Water Quality Test

To help Pittsburgh homeowners stay safe, Calfo offers a $39.99 in-home water quality test that evaluates whether your home may be affected by lead or other contaminants.

Your visit includes:

  • Lead presence screening
  • Water clarity and flow analysis
  • Inspection of aerators, sinks, fixtures, and exposed plumbing
  • Identification of potential service line material
  • Review of your water notice, if you received one
  • Guidance on next steps and replacement options if needed

This is one of the most affordable and effective ways to get clear answers about your water quality.


How the Local Lead Line Reimbursement Process Works

Pittsburgh’s Community Lead Response program has a straightforward process for homeowners:

  1. You receive a notice identifying that your property’s private service line is made of lead.
  2. A licensed plumber completes the replacement work.
  3. The homeowner or plumber submits the required documents, which typically include:
    • An itemized invoice
    • The official lead line reimbursement form
    • A final inspection report from the county health department
  4. The Lead Help Desk reviews the submission.
  5. A reimbursement check for the approved amount is issued to the homeowner.

In many documented cases, the reimbursement percentage is 100 percent, meaning qualifying homeowners pay nothing out of pocket once the paperwork is approved.

Calfo has processed these steps many times and helps customers complete everything correctly to avoid delays.


Why Pittsburgh Chooses Calfo for Lead Water Concerns

Choosing the right plumber for lead-related work matters — not every company is approved or experienced with the reimbursement process.

Calfo Home Services stands out because:

  • We are listed on the Pittsburgh approved plumbing provider list
  • Our documentation aligns with the reimbursement program requirements
  • We understand the entire end-to-end process
  • We make testing easy, affordable, and fast
  • We give homeowners clear, jargon-free explanations so you always know what to expect

Our goal is simple: protect your home, protect your water, and eliminate stress from the entire process.


Signs You Should Get Your Pittsburgh Water Tested For Lead

You should schedule a water test if:

  • Your home was built before 1986
  • You’ve received a notice about a lead service line
  • Your water has a metallic taste or discoloration
  • You’ve had recent plumbing or construction work
  • You want peace of mind about your drinking water

Lead issues do not always come with obvious symptoms. Testing is the only way to know for sure.


Protect Your Home. Protect Your Family.

Start With a $39.99 Water Test.

The Pittsburgh lead reimbursement program is an incredible opportunity for homeowners to replace unsafe lines at little or no out-of-pocket cost. Calfo makes the process seamless — from the first test to the final inspection.

If you’re concerned about your water, now is the time to take action.

Schedule your $39.99 in-home water quality test and get the peace of mind your family deserves.