Lakewood Water Line Replacement Crews Canvassing Homes: What To Know

LAKEWOOD, NJ — Residents in parts of Lakewood may receive visits from authorized contractors as New Jersey American Water continues efforts to identify and replace potentially hazardous water service lines.

According to an Oct. 19 township notice, crews working with CDM Smith, a qualified contractor for New Jersey American Water, are currently canvassing homes in the Route 9 South area between Central Avenue and Cross Street.

The work covers census tracts 7155.03 and 7157.01.

The canvassing is part of New Jersey American Water's Lead Service Line Replacement Program, which follows a 2021 state law requiring water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031.

A service line connects the water main in the street to a home or building. It includes sections owned by both the utility and the property owner.

Residents have options for self-identifying their service line materials.

They can submit photographs of their water service pipes to New Jersey American Water or schedule an in-person inspection at a time convenient to them.

The utility is sending informational materials in multiple languages to potentially affected customers explaining both options.

Authorized canvassers may also proactively visit designated properties to assist residents.

Inspections are free and typically take about 15 minutes, according to the township notice.

How to identify legitimate workers:

Canvassers will wear high-visibility vests displaying New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and carry official identification.

They will never request sensitive personal or financial information or documentation.

Lakewood Township emphasized that all canvassing, inspections and replacement work are conducted by New Jersey American Water or its authorized contractors, not township employees or other government agencies.

The utility's work has been coordinated with Lakewood Township to support public awareness and safety.

Meanwhile, residents can continue using their water normally. The township said New Jersey American Water's water continues to meet state and federal quality standards, including those for lead.

Residents can find service line identification tools and an interactive inventory map at newjerseyamwater.com/leadfacts.

For additional questions, email leadfreenj@amwater.com or call CDM Smith at 732-590-4700.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.