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WaterSafeCheck

Dover, DE Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 5 ZIP codes in Dover, Delaware

Average Score

89/100

Health Violations

10

ZIP Codes

5

High Lead Risk

0

of 5 ZIP codes

A

About Tap Water in Dover, DE

Tap water in Dover, DE ranks among the best in the state, maintaining a remarkable average water quality score of 89/100 across its 5 ZIP codes. Based on recent EPA Safe Drinking Water Act compliance records, water provided by Rehoboth Pump District (tui) and other municipal suppliers has consistently met or exceeded federal safety standards. This top-tier "A" grade reflects strong infrastructure, diligent monitoring by Delaware Division of Public Health, and low contaminant levels.

The accumulation of 10 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Dover's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by Delaware Division of Public Health. The city relies on ground water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Fortunately, the modeled risk for widespread lead exposure in Dover's municipal water is relatively low compared to national averages. However, because lead typically enters drinking water through the corrosion of older, individual home plumbing rather than the main supply lines, residents in homes built before 1986 should still exercise caution by running the tap before use.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Dover

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Dover water systems over the past 5 years.

Consumer Confidence Report RuleContaminant 1032

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Dover, DE

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

A
19903

Dover, DE

Score: 93/1002 violations
A
19905

Dover, DE

Score: 93/1002 violations
A
19906

Dover, DE

Score: 93/1002 violations
A
19904

Dover, DE

Score: 85/1002 violations
B
19901

Dover, DE

Score: 80/1002 violations

Frequently Asked Questions — Dover Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Dover, DE?+
Yes — tap water in Dover meets all federal EPA standards and earns a A grade. It is generally safe for healthy adults. As always, running your tap for 30 seconds before use and using a filter adds extra protection for vulnerable populations.
What is the water quality score for Dover?+
The average water quality score across 5 ZIP codes in Dover, DE is 89/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Dover have lead in its tap water?+
Lead risk ratings in Dover are relatively low based on EPA monitoring data. However, lead in home plumbing is a separate concern — if your home was built before 1986, individual tap testing is recommended.
How do I get the water quality report for Dover?+
Each ZIP code in Dover has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Dover's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Dover, DE primarily comes from ground water. Groundwater systems pump water from underground aquifers, which is naturally filtered through soil and rock but can still contain naturally occurring contaminants.

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