Good Water Quality
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Durham, North Carolina (27702) receives an overall grade of B (Good) with a score of 74 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is roughly in line with the North Carolina state average of 72. The area is served by Kerley Gardens, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 87 people. The area has 12 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 74/100 means the water in Durham, NC is generally good and meets EPA standards, with only minor areas of concern. There may be low levels of detectable contaminants or a small number of non-critical violations. Most residents can feel comfortable with their tap water quality, though basic filtration can provide an extra layer of protection.
Common Questions
Based on EPA data, tap water in Durham, North Carolina receives a grade of B (Good) with a score of 74/100. 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 27702 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 87 people. Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil, often requiring less treatment. However, it can be vulnerable to contamination from underground sources like naturally occurring arsenic, nitrates from agriculture, or PFAS from industrial sites.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 27702. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Durham, North Carolina 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 Durham, North Carolina have received 12 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 Durham, North Carolina 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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