Private Water Supplies

We are responsible for monitoring private water supplies (any supply that is not from a mains supply) such as from boreholes, wells or springs, within South Cambridgeshire. We monitor these supplies for bacteria and chemicals. This helps to make sure that water is fit for drinking, cooking and washing.  

Although we are responsible for monitoring private water supplies, we are not responsible for providing water to homes with a private water supply.

If you are concerned about a private water supply or would like more advice please email commercial.envhealth@scambs.gov.uk 

Risk assessments

Under the Private Water Supplies (England) Regulations 2016 the local authority must carry out a risk assessment of all large and/or commercial supplies at least once every 5 years. 

This is an assessment of the water source, water treatment and distribution system to identify potential sources of contamination. This helps to prevent and address potential issues in order to reduce water contamination risks. A risk assessment is not required for single dwellings under the regulations, but it can be requested by the owner. 

Sampling 

The Local authority has a duty to monitor private water supplies within its area.

The sampling frequency and type is dependent on the size and nature of the supply. Large commercial supplies may be sampled several times a year, while small domestic supplies may only be sampled once every 5 years.  

Samples from single dwelling supplies are not routinely carried out but can be requested by the owner.

Costs

The local authority recovers its costs for undertaking the risk assessment and sampling. It does not make a profit on its sampling.  

We employ the services of an independent sampler who uses suitably accredited (UKAS ISO/IEC 17025) sampling methodology and labs. Maximum charges are laid out in The Private Water Supplies (England) Regulations 2016 Schedule 5.

Private Water Supply Questionnaire

Please use our private water supply questionnaire to tell us of a new or existing borehole, or to update your details.  

Mains water

If you are currently using a Private Water Supply and would like further information on connecting to a mains supply, please contact Cambridge Water directly. 

Perfluorooctane Sulphonate (PFOS)

As reported in the media during February 2022, a chemical called PFOS was found in the Duxford aquifer. This aquifer is a source of drinking water utilised by Cambridge Water who have removed this source from their mains water supply. More information on this can be found in the report by Cambridge Waters.