A94/100
Hays Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,486 residents · North Carolina
What's In Hays's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – May 9, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – May 9, 2025Rule: 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
BLUE RIDGE WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
8,486
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0197030
Frequently Asked Questions About Hays Water
Is Hays tap water safe to drink?
Hays, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (94/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Hays's water?
31 contaminants were tested in Hays's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Hays have any water quality violations?
Yes, Hays has 2 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Hays?
Hays 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Hays's tap water come from?
Hays's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BLUE RIDGE WATER ASSOCIATION. The system serves approximately 8,486 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Hays'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. Hays'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 Hays's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Hays's water quality score of 94/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Hays among the better-performing water systems in North Carolina. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Hays's water quality?
If you have concerns about Hays'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 (BLUE RIDGE WATER ASSOCIATION) 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.