Yearly Reports
The 1996 federal Safe Drinking Water Act requires utilities to provide consumers with a yearly report on the source and quality of the water they drink. The city of Richmond Department of Public Utilities is proud of its record of providing safe, high-quality drinking water to citizens throughout the region. The most recent water quality reports are available below.
Lead and Copper Rule
Tests conducted as part of DPU's lead and copper sampling program have shown that the city's water is safe and 100 percent compliant with the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule. If you are interested in learning more about the Lead and Copper Rule, click here to visit EPA's Web Site
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Should I be concerned about lead in the water?
A. The city of Richmond’s water system is safe and 100 percent compliant with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead and
Copper Rule. If you live in a home that predates 1930 and are concerned that your home has a lead water service line, there
are actions you can take to reduce lead in your drinking water. If a faucet has not been used for six hours or longer, flush
the cold water pipes by running the water until it becomes as cold as it will get. Also, use only water from the cold-water
tap for drinking, cooking and especially for preparing baby formula. Additionally, Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities
has an ongoing lead services renewal program and customarily replaces lead service lines when notified that homeowners have
replaced their portion of the service line.
Q. What can affect the taste and odor of my water?
A. A significant change in the source water (the James River), such as an algae bloom, can impact both the taste and
odor at the tap. Also, maintenance on the distribution system (water mains) can cause temporary clarity and odor problems.
In none of these instances is the safety of the water reduced.
Q. Is Richmond’s water hard or soft?
A. Hardness is measured by the amount of magnesium and calcium salts in the water. Richmond’s water is moderately hard.
Q. How can I learn more about my drinking water?
A. More information may be obtained from the following sources:
City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities
(804)646-7000
DPU Customer Service
Environmental Protection Agency Safe Drinking Water Hotline
1-800-426-4791
www.epa.gov
American Water Works Association
1-800-926-7337
www.awwa.org
