The condition of the distribution infrastructure certainly affects the ability of a utility to adequately serve its customers, to provide water meeting all quality regulations, and to perform at a level acceptable to the owner and customer. This paper identifies six critical components that should be considered in implementing a comprehensive infrastructure renewal program that will meet the increasing expectations of today's consumer. They are: assessment factors; program size and objectives; decision support tools; standard materials and methods; financial and human resources; and customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.