D37/100
West Hempstead Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 33,531 residents · New York
What's In West Hempstead'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) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024Enforcement: 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
WEST HEMPSTEAD WD
Population Served
32,031
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY2902857
CATHEDRAL GARDENS WD
Population Served
1,500
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
NY2902859
Frequently Asked Questions About West Hempstead Water
Is West Hempstead tap water safe to drink?
West Hempstead, New York tap water receives a grade of D (37/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 137 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in West Hempstead's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in West Hempstead'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 West Hempstead have any water quality violations?
Yes, West Hempstead has 137 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in West Hempstead?
West Hempstead 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 West Hempstead's tap water come from?
West Hempstead's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by WEST HEMPSTEAD WD and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 33,531 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is West Hempstead'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. West Hempstead'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 West Hempstead's water compare to other cities in New York?
West Hempstead's water quality score of 37/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about West Hempstead's water quality?
If you have concerns about West Hempstead'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 (WEST HEMPSTEAD WD) 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.