F13/100
Berlin Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 12,991 residents · New Jersey
What's In Berlin's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
3
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 225.27 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Ground Water 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
BERLIN WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
12,991
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0405001
Frequently Asked Questions About Berlin Water
Is Berlin tap water safe to drink?
Berlin, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of F (13/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 74 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Berlin's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Berlin's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Berlin have any water quality violations?
Yes, Berlin has 74 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, RPT, MON. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Berlin?
Berlin 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. 3 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Berlin's tap water come from?
Berlin's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BERLIN WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 12,991 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Berlin'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. Berlin'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 Berlin's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
Berlin's water quality score of 13/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Berlin's water quality?
If you have concerns about Berlin'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 (BERLIN 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.