A81/100
Roanoke Rapids Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 15,630 residents · North Carolina
What's In Roanoke Rapids'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 | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2017.
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
ROANOKE RAPIDS SANITARY DIST
Population Served
15,630
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0442010
Frequently Asked Questions About Roanoke Rapids Water
Is Roanoke Rapids tap water safe to drink?
Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (81/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Roanoke Rapids's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Roanoke Rapids'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 Roanoke Rapids have any water quality violations?
Yes, Roanoke Rapids has 11 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2017. Violation types include RPT, MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Roanoke Rapids?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Roanoke Rapids 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 Roanoke Rapids's tap water come from?
Roanoke Rapids's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ROANOKE RAPIDS SANITARY DIST. The system serves approximately 15,630 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Roanoke Rapids'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. Roanoke Rapids'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 Roanoke Rapids's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Roanoke Rapids's water quality score of 81/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Roanoke Rapids 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 Roanoke Rapids's water quality?
If you have concerns about Roanoke Rapids'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 (ROANOKE RAPIDS SANITARY DIST) 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.