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Wilmington, DE Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 26 ZIP codes in Wilmington, Delaware

Average Score

80/100

Health Violations

0

ZIP Codes

26

High Lead Risk

10

of 26 ZIP codes

B

About Tap Water in Wilmington, DE

The drinking water in Wilmington, DE generally meets all federal health standards, earning a solid B grade with a composite safety score of 80/100 across 26 ZIP codes. While the primary water utility, Wilmington Water Department, maintains adequate compliance with EPA regulations, there have been minor or administrative violations on record. Overall, residents receive safe tap water that is actively monitored by Delaware Division of Public Health.

A major factor in Wilmington's high rating is its flawless health-based violation record. Over the past 5 years of EPA tracking, local water systems have recorded zero health-based violations. This means that regulated contaminants—such as lead, arsenic, and harmful bacteria—have not exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) allowed by federal law. Drawing primarily from surface water, the city utilizes advanced filtration to maintain this standard.

Additionally, lead exposure risk remains a critical issue for certain neighborhoods. EPA data indicates that 10 out of 26 ZIP codes in Wilmington are rated as High or Very High risk for lead. This risk is often driven by aging homes with pre-1986 plumbing containing lead solder or service lines. Families in these areas should test their tap water and consider NSF/ANSI 53 certified filters.

⚠ Lead Risk Alert: Some ZIP codes in Wilmington are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk based on EPA data. Search your specific ZIP code for a detailed lead level report.

Frequently Asked Questions — Wilmington Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Wilmington, DE?+
Yes — tap water in Wilmington meets all federal EPA standards and earns a B 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 Wilmington?+
The average water quality score across 26 ZIP codes in Wilmington, DE is 80/100. 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 Wilmington have lead in its tap water?+
10 out of 26 ZIP codes in Wilmington are rated High or Very High for lead exposure risk. Older homes built before 1986 may have lead service lines or plumbing fixtures. Residents should run their tap for 30 seconds before use and consider a certified NSF/ANSI 53 lead filter.
How do I get the water quality report for Wilmington?+
Each ZIP code in Wilmington 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 Wilmington's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Wilmington, DE primarily comes from surface water. Surface water systems treat water from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs using filtration, sedimentation, and disinfection before it reaches your tap.

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