C40/100
North Caldwell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,000 residents · New Jersey
What's In North Caldwell's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 1, 2024 – August 31, 2024Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – August 18, 2021Enforcement: 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
NORTH CALDWELL WATER DEP
Population Served
6,000
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NJ0715001
Frequently Asked Questions About North Caldwell Water
Is North Caldwell tap water safe to drink?
North Caldwell, New Jersey tap water receives a grade of C (40/100), which is considered fair. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 29 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in North Caldwell's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in North Caldwell's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does North Caldwell have any water quality violations?
Yes, North Caldwell has 29 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, RPT. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in North Caldwell?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in North Caldwell is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does North Caldwell's tap water come from?
North Caldwell's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by NORTH CALDWELL WATER DEP. The system serves approximately 6,000 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is North Caldwell'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. North Caldwell'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 North Caldwell's water compare to other cities in New Jersey?
North Caldwell's water quality score of 40/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our New Jersey state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about North Caldwell's water quality?
If you have concerns about North Caldwell'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 (NORTH CALDWELL WATER DEP) 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.