A89/100
New Kent Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 13,561 residents · Virginia
What's In New Kent's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
This system has a clean compliance history.
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
CENTRAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
7,864
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
VA4127190
BOTTOMS BRIDGE
Population Served
2,510
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
VA4127200
NEW KENT COURTHOUSE
Population Served
3,187
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
VA4127530
Frequently Asked Questions About New Kent Water
Is New Kent tap water safe to drink?
New Kent, Virginia tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 21 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 New Kent's water?
Of the 21 contaminants tested in New Kent'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 New Kent have any water quality violations?
Yes, New Kent has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2000. Violation types include MCL, MR. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in New Kent?
New Kent 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 New Kent's tap water come from?
New Kent's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CENTRAL WATER SYSTEM and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 13,561 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is New Kent'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. New Kent'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 New Kent's water compare to other cities in Virginia?
New Kent's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places New Kent among the better-performing water systems in Virginia. Visit our Virginia state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about New Kent's water quality?
If you have concerns about New Kent'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 (CENTRAL WATER SYSTEM) 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.