D30/100
Somerset Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 18,303 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Somerset's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.010 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issuedVerify on EPA.gov
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
SOMERSET WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
18,303
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MA4273000
Frequently Asked Questions About Somerset Water
Is Somerset tap water safe to drink?
Somerset, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of D (30/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 23 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Somerset's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Somerset's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Somerset have any water quality violations?
Yes, Somerset has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MCL, MR. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Somerset?
Somerset 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Somerset's tap water come from?
Somerset's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by SOMERSET WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 18,303 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Somerset'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. Somerset'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 Somerset's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Somerset's water quality score of 30/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Somerset's water quality?
If you have concerns about Somerset'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 (SOMERSET WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.