Risk Factors
What You Should Do
89% of homes in this ZIP were built before 1986, when lead-based paint was banned. If your home was built before 1978, consider a lead paint inspection.
There is an estimated 25% probability that homes in this area are served by lead service lines. Contact your water utility to verify your service line material.
NSF/ANSI 53 or NSF/ANSI 58 certified filters can remove 95-99% of lead from drinking water. Reverse osmosis and carbon block systems are most effective.
With a median home build year of 1947, many homes may have older plumbing. Run cold water for 30-60 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking, especially in the morning.
Test Your Water at Home
EPA data shows system-wide averages. A home water test measures what comes out of your faucet.
Get a Lead & Heavy Metals Test Kit →Lead Exposure Risk in Waban, MA
ZIP code 02468 has high lead exposure risk with a score of 68/100. 89% of homes were built before 1986, when lead-based plumbing materials were common.
Why This Matters
Lead exposure has no safe level, according to the CDC. Even low levels can cause developmental delays in children and cardiovascular problems in adults. The primary exposure routes in residential settings are:
- Drinking water — lead leaches from older pipes, solder, and service lines
- Lead-based paint — homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint that creates dust when disturbed
- Soil contamination — exterior lead paint and historical industrial activity can contaminate yard soil
Housing Profile for 02468
The median home in this ZIP code was built in 1947. 89% of housing units were built before 1986 (the year Congress banned lead in plumbing solder and pipes), and 61% were built before 1950 (when lead paint use was most prevalent).
Based on housing age, the most likely pipe material in this area is Galvanized Steel or Copper. Homes built before 1986 may still have lead solder joints even if the pipes themselves are copper.
Water System: NEWTON WATER DEPT. (MWRA)
ZIP 02468 is primarily served by NEWTON WATER DEPT. (MWRA) (PWSID: MA3207000), a surface water system serving approximately 88,415 people.
The system's 90th percentile lead level is null ppb, which is below the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This metric represents the level at or below which 90% of tap water samples fall during Lead and Copper Rule testing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does my lead risk score mean?
Your lead risk score ranges from 0 to 100 and reflects the likelihood of lead exposure in your area based on housing age, water system data, and infrastructure condition. Scores below 30 indicate low risk, 30-60 is moderate, and above 60 is high risk. The letter grade (A through F) provides a quick summary of overall lead safety for your ZIP code.
Should I test my water for lead?
Yes, especially if your score is above 50, your home was built before 1986, or young children live in the household. EPA system-level data shows area averages, but lead levels vary by individual home depending on your pipes, solder, and fixtures. A certified home water test is the only way to know your actual exposure.
How can I reduce lead in my water?
Run your cold water tap for at least 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, especially after the water has been sitting for several hours. Use an NSF/ANSI 53-certified water filter designed to remove lead. Test your water annually to track changes, and consider replacing lead service lines if your utility offers a replacement program.