Suez: High Lead Levels In Drinking Water Puts Hundreds Of Bergen County Households At Risk

Hundreds of Bergen County households are at risk for elevated levels of lead in the drinking water that serves 800,000 people across North Jersey, SUEZ announced Wednesday.

All impacted lines must be replaced within 60 days of the issued notice (Jan. 7).
Photo Credit: *Joe Shlabotnik/Flickr.com (Creative Commons license)*

Cecilia Levine

01/16/2019 1:01 p.m.

Of the 108 samples tested, 16 across Bergen and Hudson counties showed higher levels than the federal standard.

The discovery impacts 53 Bergen County and six Hudson County county municipalities -- all served by SUEZ' Haworth water treatment plant, a company spokesman told NJ.com.

The elevated lead levels likely came either from older lead pipes that extend from water mains under the street into homes or from older lead fixtures in the homes, according to Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi.

"If you have a newer home or a new built construction you will not be impacted as lead products were no longer used in newer construction," she said.

"Suez will test homes that are served by a company-owned lead service line for free. In the event your home tests positive for lead above the acceptable government standards a water filter that removes lead will be provided free of charge."

SUEZ was issued a notice of noncompliance Jan. 7 by the NJDEP, giving the company 60 days to submit a plan to replace the lines.

CHECK YOUR LEAD LEVELS

Suez customers can find out if they may be served by a lead line by checking their online account at mysuezwater.com/njwq, visiting SUEZWQ.com, or calling or emailing customer service center at 800-422-5987 and sueznjcustserv@suez-na.com.
Suez will test homes that are served by a company-owned lead service line for free.
A water filter that removes lead will be provided to a customer if those test results are above the government standard

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