Tennessee American Water has announced that it will begin service line material verification work in parts of Whitwell and Powells Crossroads in the coming weeks as part of the utility’s ongoing efforts to identify and document the materials of service lines.
This project supports new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules related to lead and copper. Although Tennessee American Water does not anticipate finding lead service lines in its Sequatchie Valley District, the EPA and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation require utilities to confirm service line materials through verification, including a visual inspection.
The work will focus on verifying the material of selected water service lines that are currently listed as unknown in company records. To complete the verification, crews will dig small test holes near the meter pit of selected properties. Customers do not need to be home while this work is performed, and water service will not be disrupted.
If a property is selected, customers will receive advance notification. Once the work is completed, a door hanger will be left at the property with the findings.
The work will be conducted by Tennessee American Water’s partner, CDM Smith, along with its contractor. Any areas disturbed during the process will be restored. Grassy areas will be filled and covered with existing lawn material, and asphalt or concrete surfaces will be patched, weather permitting.
Customers can learn more about lead and drinking water by visiting: tennesseeamericanwater.com/leadfacts.
