D24/100
Washington Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 667,325 residents · District of Columbia
What's In Washington's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 410.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2023 – January 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2023 – January 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
D.C. WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
Population Served
632,323
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
DC0000002
NAVAL STATION WASHINGTON - WNY
Population Served
15,690
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
DC0000003
JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA - BOLLING
Population Served
19,312
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
DC0000004
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Water
Is Washington tap water safe to drink?
Washington, District of Columbia tap water receives a grade of D (24/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 97 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Washington's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Washington's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Washington have any water quality violations?
Yes, Washington has 97 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, TT, MCL. 29 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Washington?
Washington water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Washington's tap water come from?
Washington's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by D.C. WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 667,325 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Washington's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Washington's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Washington's water compare to other cities in District of Columbia?
Washington's water quality score of 24/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our District of Columbia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Washington's water quality?
If you have concerns about Washington's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (D.C. WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.