B75/100
Chatham Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 9,811 residents · Virginia
What's In Chatham's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2011.
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
CHATHAM, TOWN OF
Population Served
2,500
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
VA5143114
MOUNT HERMON
Population Served
4,145
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA5143396
ROUTE 58 WEST
Population Served
1,260
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA5143700
RT 29 NORTH
Population Served
1,906
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA5143988
Frequently Asked Questions About Chatham Water
Is Chatham tap water safe to drink?
Chatham, Virginia tap water receives a grade of B (75/100), which is considered good. Out of 54 contaminants tested, none 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 Chatham's water?
Of the 54 contaminants tested in Chatham'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 Chatham have any water quality violations?
Yes, Chatham has 59 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2018. Violation types include MR, MCL. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Chatham?
Chatham 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 Chatham's tap water come from?
Chatham's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CHATHAM, TOWN OF and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 9,811 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Chatham'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. Chatham'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 Chatham's water compare to other cities in Virginia?
Chatham's water quality score of 75/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Virginia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Chatham's water quality?
If you have concerns about Chatham'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 (CHATHAM, TOWN 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.