Understanding the EPA Notification Templates for LCRR Compliance

Everything you need to know about the EPA templates for annual notifications

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released important resources on July 24, 2024, to help water systems comply with the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR). These resources include a template and a fact sheet specifically designed to help water systems notify customers about lead, GRR, and unknown service lines. Below, we'll explain what these templates are, how to access them, and how they fit into your compliance and public engagement strategies.

What Are the EPA Notification Templates?

The EPA templates are standardized documents that water systems can use to inform your customers about lead, galvanized requiring replacement (GRR), or unknown service lines.

The notification is required:

• Within 30 days of submitting your service line inventory to the EPA, no later than November 15th.
• Annually by December 31st, until the service line is confirmed to be non-lead.

These templates ensure that your notifications meet federal requirements, covering essential information like the health effects of lead, steps to reduce exposure, and how to get a child tested for lead. Each type of service line (lead, GRR, and unknown) has a unique template tailored to the specific requirements.

How to Access the EPA Templates

You'll need to go to the EPA's LCRR Implementation Tools website linked here. 

Scroll to the middle of the page and review the section "Notification of Known or Potential Service Line Containing Lead". 

Here, you'll find a Fact Sheet summarizing the requirements and the template examples for each service line material type.

Using the Templates in Your State

While some states have developed their own templates, many will adopt or closely follow the EPA’s versions. If your state hasn’t released its own templates, you can use the EPA’s as a guide. It’s advisable to check with your state regulators to ensure that the templates meet their standards.

Sending Out Notifications

Who Needs to Receive Them? Any customer with a lead, GRR, or unknown service line as per your submitted inventory.

How? Notifications must be sent by mail or another method approved by the state. Non-transient, non-community systems may post notice in conspicuous locations.

Certification of Notification

Water systems must not only send these notices but also certify to the state that they have done so. Some states provide certification forms to be submitted alongside example copies of the notices. These forms are typically due in the July following the previous year’s inventory submission.

How 120Water Can Help

120Water’s PWS Pro platform can simplify this entire process, from generating and automating the sending of notifications to providing an audit ready tracking log.  Using our system, you can manage customer communications efficiently, ensuring compliance without the manual effort typically involved. If you need help setting up this process, contact support@120water.com. 

By utilizing these EPA resources and confirming necessary details with your state, you can ensure that your water system will remain compliant with the latest regulations while keeping your customers informed and safe.