The Clock is Ticking! LCRI Update for Small Systems.

A practical update on EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) for small and mid‑size water systems. Learn what’s changed, what’s due when, and how to build a realistic, fundable plan to complete lead and galvanized service line replacement by the 2037 deadline.

*Full video description*

This video walks water utility managers and operators through the latest LCRI requirements—focusing on what to do now, what’s due by November 1, 2027, and how to execute replacement through November 1, 2037. We cover inventory standards, sampling changes, public notification, small‑system flexibilities, funding options, and a step‑by‑step action plan.

*What you’ll learn*

Why EPA shifted from corrosion control only to source removal: “We’re going from managing to removing.”

What’s new under LCRI: comprehensive inventories, mandatory replacement of lead and galvanized‑requiring‑replacement (GRR) lines, enhanced first‑ and fifth‑liter sampling, and a lower 10 ppb action level.

Small system flexibilities (3,300 people or less) that require state approval, including point‑of‑use options after an exceedance and reduced monitoring in certain cases.

How to prioritize replacements for schools, childcare facilities, and vulnerable neighborhoods.

Practical documentation and communication practices that regulators expect.

*Key compliance dates*

October 16, 2024: Initial service line inventory and 24‑hour Tier 1 exceedance notices began.

December 30, 2024: Final LCRI rule in effect.

November 1, 2027: Baseline service line inventory due; updated tap sampling plan due; 10‑year replacement clock starts.

November 1, 2037: 100% replacement of LSLs and GRRs complete (unless a state‑approved extension applies).

*Action plan highlights*

Now–mid‑2026: Form your compliance team, validate your initial inventory, map unknowns, and lock in funding strategy. Document everything.

Mid‑2026–Nov 1, 2027: Field‑verify unknowns; complete the baseline inventory; submit replacement and sampling plans; set your public‑facing inventory format.

Nov 2027–Nov 2037: Replace at an average of 10% per year; update inventory annually; maintain customer outreach; meet Tier 1 notice and exceedance response requirements.

Sampling and public notification

Enhanced tap sampling at LSL sites: collect both first and fifth liter after ≥6 hours stagnation; use the higher value for compliance.

Lower action level: 10 ppb at the 90th percentile triggers education, corrosion control evaluation, and—in cases of repeated exceedances—certified filters for customers.

Annual notifications to customers with lead/GRR/unknown lines and accessible, public inventories (online for larger systems; public access for small systems).

*Inventory and data tips*

Treat “unknowns” as potential lead until verified.

Include utility and customer‑side materials and connectors (e.g., goosenecks).

Use GIS to track materials, locations, work orders, and annual progress: “Doing this with a GIS database is going to make it a lot easier.”

*Funding programs mentioned*

State Revolving Fund (SRF): engage early; plan for multi‑year financing.

Reducing Lead in Drinking Water grants (focus on schools/childcare, disadvantaged communities).

USDA Rural Development (Water & Waste Disposal loans/grants).

WIFIA low‑cost financing.

State programs and technical assistance via EPA, RCAP, and Rural Water Associations.

*Budget planning cues*

Typical full replacement (both sides) often ranges $5,000–$15,000 per line, plus 15–25% soft costs; carry a 10–20% contingency.

Build a 10‑year financial outlook and include inflation and private‑side access costs.

*Other relevant videos and resources*

Diamond Maps for low-cost GIS: https://diamondmaps.com/

Predictive Maintenance:    • Predictive Maintenance for Small Water Sys...  

Well Health Check Resource Guide: https://beacon.by/library/view/c4b7b1...

Southeast Hydrogeology web site: https://www.sehydrogeology.com

*Chapters*
00:00 - Introduction to LCRI
05:12 - Background of Lead Contamination
07:21 - Understanding LCRI Framework
09:58 - Critical Timelines for Implementation
12:38 - Core LCR Requirements Overview
17:50 - Service Line Inventory Process
19:55 - Red Lead Service Line Replacement
22:05 - Tiered Monitoring Strategies
23:12 - Lower Lead Action Level Notification
26:58 - Action Plan Phase 1 Development
29:00 - Action Plan Phase 2 Execution
31:28 - Action Plan Phase 3 Review
35:26 - Cost Considerations in Budgeting
37:49 - Technical Assistance Resources
39:00 - Coordination with Partners
40:15 - Key Takeaways and Insights
42:01 - Resources and Contact Information
42:52 - Questions to Consider for LCRI
43:32 - Closing Remarks