D23/100
Raeford Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 59,210 residents · North Carolina
What's In Raeford's Tap Water?
67
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.10 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 820.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
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 – December 11, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – December 11, 2024Rule: 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
RAEFORD, CITY OF
Population Served
6,718
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0347010
NORTHWEST WATER SUPPLY INC
Population Served
1,105
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0347015
HOKE CO REGIONAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
36,640
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0347025
HOKE CO REGIONAL--ROCKFISH
Population Served
13,378
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0347030
HILLCREST-SCURLOCK WATER INC
Population Served
1,369
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0347107
Frequently Asked Questions About Raeford Water
Is Raeford tap water safe to drink?
Raeford, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (23/100), which is considered poor. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 783 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Raeford's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in Raeford's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOS, PFOA, chlorate. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Raeford have any water quality violations?
Yes, Raeford has 783 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 15 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Raeford?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Raeford is recommended. 3 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 Raeford's tap water come from?
Raeford's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by RAEFORD, CITY OF and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 59,210 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Raeford'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. Raeford'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 Raeford's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Raeford's water quality score of 23/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. 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 Raeford's water quality?
If you have concerns about Raeford'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 (RAEFORD, CITY OF) 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.