A90/100
Roanoke Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 188,221 residents · Virginia
What's In Roanoke's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2020.
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
WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY
Population Served
182,700
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
VA2770900
WVWA FERRUM WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
1,996
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
VA5067120
WESTLAKE AREA PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
3,525
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
VA5067244
Frequently Asked Questions About Roanoke Water
Is Roanoke tap water safe to drink?
Roanoke, Virginia tap water receives a grade of A (90/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 76 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 Roanoke's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Roanoke'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 Roanoke have any water quality violations?
Yes, Roanoke has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Roanoke?
Roanoke 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 Roanoke's tap water come from?
Roanoke's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 188,221 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Roanoke'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'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's water compare to other cities in Virginia?
Roanoke's water quality score of 90/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Roanoke 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 Roanoke's water quality?
If you have concerns about Roanoke'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 (WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY) 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.