F4/100
Henderson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 14,937 residents · North Carolina
What's In Henderson's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
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: January 1, 2024 – March 11, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: August 29, 2023 – October 19, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
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, 2022 – June 7, 2022Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: October 10, 2021Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
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: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
HENDERSON-KERR LAKE REG WTR
Population Served
14,937
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0291010
Frequently Asked Questions About Henderson Water
Is Henderson tap water safe to drink?
Henderson, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of F (4/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 36 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Henderson's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Henderson's water supply, the most notable include PFOS. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Henderson have any water quality violations?
Yes, Henderson has 36 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Henderson?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Henderson is recommended. 1 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 Henderson's tap water come from?
Henderson's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by HENDERSON-KERR LAKE REG WTR. The system serves approximately 14,937 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Henderson'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. Henderson'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 Henderson's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Henderson's water quality score of 4/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Henderson's water quality?
If you have concerns about Henderson'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 (HENDERSON-KERR LAKE REG WTR) 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.