There are approximately 600 private water supplies in the South Hams. The principal sources of private supplies are springs, wells and boreholes. Streams and rivers are also used but to a lesser extent because of the more variable quality of surface water compared to groundwaters.
Bacterial Contamination
The most common and widespread health risk associated with private water supplies is bacteriological contamination, either directly or indirectly, from human or animal waste. It is therefore important that any water source is adequately protected. Further advice on bacteriological water quality and protecting water sources can be found in our Advice Sheets
If the water source has become contaminated and steps to improve the quality are unsuccessful, it may be necessary to treat the water to remove the bacteriological contamination. For information on how to deal with contamination see the following advice sheet.
Nitrate Levels
Rural water supplies are not generally affected by the chemical waste products of industry; a more likely source of contamination may be the agricultural use of chemicals, particularly fertilisers and pesticides. There are a number of supplies within the District that have nitrate levels either just below, or slightly above the current standard, no doubt as a result of local agricultural activities. Further advice regarding Nitrates in private water supplies can be found in our Advice Sheet.
Metals, Uranium and Radon
The geology of the local area can also affect the quality of the water supply. Commonly occurring metals in this District are copper, aluminium, iron and manganese. Whilst lead can be present to some extent as a result of its leaching from natural sources, levels detected often originate from domestic pipes and fittings. Some private water supplies in the District may also be affected by Radon and Uranium.
Getting your water tested
If you would like to arrange for your private water supply to be tested, please contact 01803 861234. Charges for water sampling vary depending on the analysis required but the most common analysis currently falls between £65 and £91. Further details on analysis charges are available on request.
Our policy for managing private water supplies in the District is to provide as much advice as possible to help residents and businesses improve the quality of their supplies. We will also provide further contacts for obtaining detailed information relating to treatment and filtration of a failing water supply. For further information regarding the law relating to private water supplies please refer to our advice sheet.
If a supply continues to fail to meet the requirements of the Private Water Supplies Regulations 1991 and remediation work is not carried out voluntarily, then formal action will be pursued to secure improvement to the supply or alternatively, connection to the mains water supply.
Further Information
Drinking Water Inspectorate
World Health Organisation
Useful Links:
- Water Pollution Guide - Where you can find useful information about the sources of water pollution and how they can be treated.
