Frequently Asked Questions About Using Artificial Intelligence To Determine Service Line Material

By Katie Deheer, MS, MBA

The EPA estimates between 6 and 10 million lead service lines exist in the United States. Despite the prevalence of lead pipes across the country, many towns and cities lack accurate and consistent records on service line material. Physical inspection through digging is the most reliable way to determine if a service line is lead, but inspections can be costly, ranging between $500 - $2,000 or more per property. Many communities are turning to digital methods such as using Artificial Intelligence to streamline executing these critical programs. But of course, as with any new type of technology, we need to understand its value. Here are a few of the most common questions about using Artificial Intelligence to identify service line material.