C42/100
Riverhead Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 35,000 residents · New York
What's In Riverhead's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (single sample)
When: July 1, 2023 – September 25, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Enforcement: 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
RIVERHEAD WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
35,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY5103705
Frequently Asked Questions About Riverhead Water
Is Riverhead tap water safe to drink?
Riverhead, New York tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 51 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Riverhead's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Riverhead'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 Riverhead have any water quality violations?
Yes, Riverhead has 51 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MCL, MR, Other. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Riverhead?
Riverhead 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 Riverhead's tap water come from?
Riverhead's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by RIVERHEAD WATER DISTRICT. The system serves approximately 35,000 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Riverhead'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. Riverhead'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 Riverhead's water compare to other cities in New York?
Riverhead's water quality score of 42/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Riverhead's water quality?
If you have concerns about Riverhead'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 (RIVERHEAD WATER DISTRICT) 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.