Private Water Supplies

It is essential to have safe drinking water.

A private water supply is any water supply which is not provided by a water company (for example Severn Trent or United Utilities), where the water is used for human consumption or in food where the quality of the water may affect the final product.

The source of the water can include boreholes, wells and natural springs and may serve a single property, several properties or commercial premises. Most supplies are in the rural parts of the district.

All private water supplies can pose a risk to health if they are not properly protected, maintained and treated.

The Local Authority acts as a regulator for private water supplies and has a statutory duty to risk assess and monitor water supplies in its area to determine compliance with the standards and requirements for drinking water which are set out in The Private Water Supplies Regulations 2016 and The Private Water Supplies (England) (Amended) Regulations 2018.

The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI)

The DWI provides advice to local authorities on the Private Water Supply Regulations and provides guidance on drinking water monitoring parameters, standards and emerging issues.