Excellent Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
1.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Passed |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Virginia Beach, Virginia (23456) receives an overall grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 94 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 12 points above the Virginia state average of 82. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by 3 water systems providing water to approximately 438,603 people, using surface water and groundwater sources.
A score of 94/100 means the water supply in Virginia Beach, VA meets or exceeds all EPA standards with minimal issues. Contaminant levels are well within safe limits, and the water system has maintained a strong compliance record. While no water supply is guaranteed perfect at the tap due to household plumbing, this is among the best-scoring areas in the country.
Health Information
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, kidney damage, and cardiovascular effects in adults. The EPA action level is 15 ppb, but health experts recommend no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead enters water primarily through corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass fixtures — especially in homes built before 1986.
If lead is detected above 1 ppb, consider using a certified lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53) for drinking and cooking water. Run cold water for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes.
Common Questions
Based on EPA data, tap water in Virginia Beach, Virginia receives a grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 94/100. This indicates the water meets federal standards and has relatively few concerns. However, individual homes may still have localized issues such as lead from old plumbing.
ZIP code 23456 is served by 3 water systems using surface water, groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 438,603 people. Multiple source types mean your water may come from a blend of surface and underground sources.
Lead levels in Virginia Beach, Virginia are 1.0 ppb, which is at or below the health guideline of 1 ppb. This is a positive result, though periodic testing is still recommended.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Virginia Beach, Virginia during the most recent EPA monitoring period (UCMR5). However, not all water systems have been tested for all PFAS compounds, and new contamination can occur over time.
Water systems serving Virginia Beach, Virginia have received 4 violations in the last 5 years. Violations can range from paperwork issues (monitoring & reporting) to serious health-based violations where contaminant levels exceeded safe limits. Review the violation details above for specifics.
Water in Virginia Beach, Virginia shows no major contaminant concerns based on available data. A basic carbon filter can improve taste and reduce chlorine. For extra peace of mind, an NSF-certified pitcher filter or faucet-mount filter provides an affordable layer of protection.
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