The following video features a tutorial for the scratch and magnet test to identify what material your water service line is made of:

Step 1: Locate your water service line

Locate the water service line coming into your home/building. The service line comes into your building from the street. It is typically located in a utility room or the lowest level of the home/building or in a crawl space. The service line will be connected to the water meter, if you have one. An example of a water service line and meter is below.

Step 2: Test the pipe

Scratch Test
Identify a test area on the pipe between the point where it enters the building and the inlet valve/meter. If the pipe is covered or wrapped, expose a small area of metal. Use a coin, key or another tool to carefully scratch the pipe like you would a lottery ticket. If your line is painted you may need sandpaper to clear a small area.

Magnet Test
Simply place a magnet on the test area of the pipe. Please see image below to determine how to interpret the results of the pipe test:

Step 3: Take a picture

Please take a picture of your water service line. Make sure that the color of your water service line is shown clearly and if possible that the meter itself is shown as well. See the following image for an example of a picture to send:

Step 4: Send us the picture and following information

Please email us at publicservice@westerville.org or use the form available here to provide us with the following information:

• Name
• Address
• Contact phone number
• Email address
• Indicate the material of your water service line
• Image of your water service line

You also have the option of having us come out to inspect and determine the material of your water service lines for you. To schedule an appointment please call us at (614) 901-6740 or email us at publicservice@westerville.org.