Lead and copper can be found naturally in water reservoirs throughout Texas, but at extremely low levels. In fact, levels of lead and copper in reservoirs are so low that they are not a health concern. However, if water is not properly treated to minimize its corrosive tendencies, the water delivered to customers can dissolve lead or copper found in customer-owned plumbing. Prior to 1986, lead was a common component of building plumbing. In 1986, Congress amended the Safe Drinking Water Act (originally adopted in 1974) to prohibit the use of pipes, solder or flux that are not “lead free” in drinking water distribution systems. Lead free is defined as no more than 0.2% lead in flux or solder, and no more than 8% lead in pipes. In 2014, Congress further reduced allowable lead content from 8% to 0.25% in pipes and fittings.