Legislature to consider notification of lead service lines when real estate is sold
A bill has been introduced that would require a seller of real estate to notify a potential buyer if a property has lead service lines which bring water to the building.
If the water lines leading into a building are made of lead, the lead from the pipes can leach into the water. Drinking water contaminated with lead can result in a range of health problems. High levels of lead are extremely dangerous to children, including lower IQ, learning and behavior difficulties, and slowed growth. Adults with high levels of lead exposure can experience high blood pressure, memory and concentration issues, muscle and joint pain, and other issues.
Replacing lead services lines is costly.
A person purchasing a property has a right to know if the building has lead service lines. It can result in a negotiation between the buyer and seller about purchase price and replacement of the service lines. It could result in a potential buyer walking away from a property. Disclosure of the lead services lines allows a potential buyer to make an informed decision about purchasing the property.
The Sierra Club supports this legislation.
What you can do
- SF425 is ready for floor debate. Ask your state senator to support SF425 ( formerly SSB1063). To look up your senate member, see www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/senate or to Find your legislator
- HF876 is ready for floor debate. Ask your Representative to support HF876 (formerly HF442). To look up your House member, see see www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/house and to find your legislators, see www.legis.iowa.gov/legislators/find
