Water Updates In Montclair: Lead Pipe Mandate, Meter Replacements

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Montclair is asking local homeowners to help identify “unknown” water pipes as the town moves forward with a state-mandated replacement project.

New Jersey passed a state law in 2021 that requires water providers to replace all of their lead service lines within 10 years. Read More: New Jersey Is Replacing Its Lead Water Pipes – All Of Them

The pipes – which connect local homes and businesses to the local water supply – can potentially leach lead contamination as water passes through them. A portion of the pipes may be privately owned, complicating efforts to replace them.

Since then, towns and cities across the state have been moving forward with their plans to meet the new mandate, including Montclair.

APRIL UPDATE

The Montclair Water Bureau released an update about the local effort to replace lead service lines on Tuesday.

Here’s they had to say:

“The Montclair Water Bureau is committed to providing superior service to the community. As part of that service, we routinely upgrade water meters throughout the system. If our records indicate that the meters serving a property within the Township is in need of replacement, National Metering Service (NMS) will be contacting residents and business owners directly. This is a free service provided by the Township, and NMS will begin contacting residents throughout the month of April.

“This project will serve a second purpose for the Township. While upgrading the meters NMS will also identify service materials on the homeowner’s side. As of July 2021, the Lead Service Line Replacement Law was passed requiring utilities to identify lead and galvanized service lines from the curb stop to the meter and come up with a plan of action on how to replace said services. Lead and galvanized service lines must be out of the ground by 2031. If you are contacted by National Metering Service your service line material is unknown. We are asking for everyone’s help to identify the unknown lines so the Montclair Water Bureau can create a plan of action and remove the lead and galvanized lines as required.

• If your water line needs service, you will soon receive a letter from National Metering Services with detailed instructions on how to schedule your appointment. Please wait for their communication, which will include all the necessary information, such as your Reference Number and PIN, to set up an appointment conveniently.
• NMS personnel will be easily identifiable by their uniforms, marked vehicles, and photo ID badges. Please ensure you verify their identification before allowing anyone into your home.
• To facilitate a smooth installation process, we kindly ask that you clear the area around your water meter prior to the technician’s arrival.

“The Montclair Water Bureau thanks you in advance for your cooperation as we are working to come up with an action plan while enhancing services. Should you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Montclair Water Bureau directly.”

• See Related: Race To Replace Lead Pipes Is On Pace, NJ's Largest Water Company Says
• See Related: NJ Will Save Much More Than It Spends Replacing Lead Pipes: Study

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