Newport Water Division
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? You’re in the right place. We’ve put together answers to some of the most common things people ask us in the Newport Water Division (NWD) about programs, services, and more.
To keep things simple, we’ve grouped the questions by topic. Just click on the category that matches what you’re looking for.
Lead Service Line Management Program
A water service line is the pipe that connects your property to the Newport Water Division’s (NWD) public water main. It delivers fresh, treated water to your home or business.
Ownership is shared between NWD and the property owner:
- The property owner owns the portion from the curb stop to the building and is responsible for its maintenance or replacement.
- NWD owns the portion from the water main to the curb stop valve (typically near the property boundary).
Lead is a naturally occurring toxic metal. Even at low levels, it can be harmful if swallowed or inhaled.
The primary sources of lead exposure in children are lead-based paint and contaminated dust. However, lead can also be found in:
- Soil
- Food
- Ceramics
- Some cosmetics
- Batteries
- Old plumbing materials and service lines
While the most common sources of lead exposure are not from water, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 10–20% of total lead exposure may come from drinking water. For infants relying on formula mixed with tap water, this percentage can be as high as 40–60%.
Learn more at the EPA’s Lead in Drinking Water webpage.
Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode.
Common sources include:
- Lead pipes (especially service lines)
- Brass or chrome-plated brass faucets
- Plumbing with lead-based solder (used before 1986)
In homes with lead service lines, these are typically the largest source of lead in drinking water.
NWD maintains an interactive Water Service Line Material Map where residents can:
- Search your address using the map’s top-left search bar.
- Check both public and private side materials (city vs. property owner).
- If your service line material is listed as “unknown,” perform a Material Verification Test at the point where the pipe enters your building near the water meter.
- Submit your findings and a photo through our online survey.
If you’re unsure or unable to identify your service line material, you may:
- Schedule an inspection by calling (401) 845-5600 or emailing LeadInfo@CityofNewport.com.
NWD is responsible for replacing any lead service lines from the water main to the curb stop (public side).
If the private side (curb stop to building) is made of lead, it is the property owner’s responsibility to replace it.
If you plan to replace your portion of the line:
- Hire a licensed plumber
- Submit a Water Service Application to NWD before beginning work
NWD complies with the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule and its updates since 1991.
We regularly test water from selected high-risk homes and buildings across our service area. If lead levels exceed EPA’s action level (10 parts per billion), the property owner is notified and provided with health and safety guidance from the Rhode Island Department of Health.
To learn more, view our annual Consumer Confidence Reports, available on our Water Treatment & Quality page.
Yes. Because lead in water is colorless, tasteless, and odorless, the only way to know if it’s present is through laboratory testing.
A list of certified laboratories is available from the Rhode Island Department of Health.
Lead exposure can cause serious health problems, especially for infants, young children, and pregnant women.
- Some of the health effects to infants and children include decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can also result in new or worsened learning and behavior problems. The children of persons who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy may be at increased risk of these harmful health effects.
- Adults have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or nervous system problems.
- Contact your health care provider for more information about your risks.
If you have a lead service line, the most effective step you can take is to have it replaced. In the meantime, the following actions can help reduce lead exposure from drinking water:
- Flush your pipes before using water for drinking or cooking.
If water hasn’t been used for several hours (such as overnight or after work), run the cold-water tap for at least 5 minutes or until the water feels cold. This helps clear out water that may have been sitting in contact with lead pipes or plumbing. - Use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and baby formula.
Hot water can cause more lead to leach from pipes and fixtures. Do not use hot tap water for preparing food or infant formula. Boiling water does not remove lead. - Test your water.
Lead is invisible, tasteless, and odorless, so testing is the only way to know if it’s present. Find certified drinking water testing labs on the Rhode Island Department of Health website. - Use a water filter certified to remove lead.
Choose filters that are certified to meet NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction. Visit NSF International or call 800-NSF-8010 for information about filter performance and certified brands. - Install lead-free plumbing fixtures.
When replacing faucets or fittings, look for products labeled as “lead-free” and certified by NSF or other accredited organizations. Older fixtures, even brass, can contribute lead to drinking water. - Clean faucet aerators regularly.
Tiny screens at the end of your faucets, called aerators, can collect lead particles and sediment over time. Remove and clean them regularly to prevent buildup. - Test your child for lead exposure.
- If you are concerned about lead in your home or water, talk to your healthcare provider about getting your child tested for lead in their blood. You can also contact the Rhode Island Department of Health for assistance.
For more information on reducing lead exposure and the health effects of lead, visit the EPA’s Lead in Drinking Water page, speak with your healthcare provider, or reach out to the Rhode Island Department of Health.
Don’t See your Lead Service Line Management Question?
Call us at (401) 845-5600 or email LeadInfo@NewportRI.gov.
Have questions about lead regulations? Contact the RIDOH Center for Drinking Water Quality by calling 401-222-6867 or emailing DOH.RIDWQ@health.ri.gov.
Water Treatment & Quality
Discolored water is often the result of harmless mineral buildup or disturbance in the distribution system. Follow these steps to identify the cause:
- Check hot vs. cold water:
- If only hot water is discolored, the issue is likely related to your water heater.
- If cold water is discolored, continue to the next step.
- Run cold taps for 1–2 minutes:
- If the water clears quickly, the issue is likely with your private service line.
- If it remains discolored, it may be due to nearby water main activity. In that case, contact NWD at (401) 845-5600.
Discoloration can be caused by events that stir up sediment in the pipes, including:
- Fire hydrant use
- Valve adjustments
- Water main flushing
- Pressure changes
- Aging infrastructure
These events are typically temporary and discoloration often resolves without the need for action.
Cloudy or milky water is typically caused by air bubbles and is harmless. The water will clear if left to sit for a few moments.
Temporary taste or odor changes can result from:
- Seasonal changes in reservoir water
- Routine maintenance
- Treatment adjustments
If changes persist, contact NWD for assistance.
Yes. NWD’s drinking water meets or exceeds all state and federal water quality standards. Our water is tested at multiple points throughout the treatment and distribution process to ensure it remains safe, clean, and reliable.
Each year, NWD publishes a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) that details:
- Water quality results
- Detected contaminants
- Health advisories (if any)
- Compliance with EPA and RIDOH regulations
You can view current and past reports online dating back to 2004 on our Water Treatment & Quality page.
NWD uses a comprehensive multi-step treatment process, including:
- Pre-oxidation – Chlorine dioxide is added to start disinfection and improve taste and odor.
- Coagulation – Alum and polymers bind small particles together into larger clumps (floc).
- Clarification – A pulsating clarifier removes floc and suspended solids.
- Filtration – Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters remove remaining particles and organic matter.
- Disinfection – A controlled dose of chlorine is added for long-lasting protection.
- pH Adjustment – Stabilizes water and prevents corrosion in household plumbing.
- Fluoridation – Fluoride is added to promote dental health in line with public health recommendations.
This ensures the removal of harmful substances and provides high-quality water to homes and businesses.
To protect public health and infrastructure and in accordance with state and federal requirements, we carefully add:
- Chlorine – for long-lasting disinfection
- Corrosion inhibitor – to reduce the potential for lead and copper leaching from pipes
- Fluoride – to help prevent tooth decay, this process is supported by the CDC, ADA, and other major health organizations
NWD conducts continuous monitoring at our treatment plants, testing water quality every hour. In addition:
- Specialized sampling occurs daily, monthly, quarterly, and annually throughout the system to ensure your water is clean, safe, and reliable.
- We monitor for over 160 potential contaminants, far exceeding bottled water testing requirements.
- Microbial contaminants (bacteria and viruses)
- Inorganic chemicals (e.g., salts, metals)
- Organic chemicals (e.g., solvents, petroleum by-products)
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Radioactive contaminants
These substances can occur naturally or result from human activities such as farming, industrial processes, and stormwater runoff.
To safeguard reservoir water quality, NWD has secured over 350 acres of land under conservation easements. These protected lands help reduce pollution from runoff and preserve the natural environment around critical water sources.
Absolutely! We welcome group visits and offer educational tours for schools and local organizations.
Call us at (401) 845-5600 to schedule a visit, we’d love to show you how we keep your water safe!
Don’t See Your Water Treatment & Quality Question?
Call us at 401-845-5600
Water Meters
If you notice a damaged, raised, or potentially hazardous meter box or pit, please report it immediately.
Call our meter staff at 401-845-5606 with the exact location.
Contact the meter staff by calling 401-845-5606 for assistance with temporary shut off.
Property owners can request seasonal termination or restoration pf water service for their property by completing a Request for Seasonal Turn On/Off Form.
Contractors may request temporary water service for construction activities or other short-term needs by completing and submitting a Temporary Water Service Application along with site plans.
Once the application is reviewed and approved, a temporary meter will be issued for use during the approved service period.
A final water meter reading is required as part of a real estate closing. Here’s what to do:
- Complete and submit the Request for Final Reading for Sale of Real Estate Form (typically done by the seller’s realtor or attorney).
- Meter staff will schedule and perform the final meter reading.
- A final bill will be issued to the seller, and both the buyer and seller will receive account information, including any outstanding charges.
Property owners can request a meter reading between tenant move-ins and move-outs by submitting a Request for Tenancy Change Form. After meter staff perform a reading, a specialized bill will be generated for the period requested, ensuring accurate charges between tenants.
All residential, commercial, and government properties serviced by the Newport Water Division (NWD) in Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth are equipped with water meters. This ensures:
- 100% system-wide metering
- Accurate customer billing
- Effective water usage monitoring and leak detection
If you suspect a meter issue, especially after receiving an unexpectedly high bill:
- Use our High Utility Bill Investigation Checklist to rule out common causes.
- If no leaks are found, submit a Meter Test Request Form.
What to expect during a meter test:
- You can schedule the test at your convenience.
- Water service will be temporarily interrupted during testing and restored afterward.
- You are welcome to observe the test.
Cellular meters are the new generation of water meters replacing traditional radio-read models. They:
- Provide real-time water usage data
- Improve accuracy and efficiency
- Allow customers to monitor usage through EyeOnWater
NWD is upgrading meters across the service area as funding becomes available.
EyeOnWater is a free online and mobile app that allows you to track your water use in real time if you have a cellular meter. You’ll be notified when your property is eligible.
To sign up:
- Go to the EyeOnWater sign-up page.
- Enter your water account number and ZIP code.
- Provide your email address.
- Create and confirm a password.
- Accept the Terms of Use.
- Verify your email address.
- Start monitoring your usage!
You’ll be able to view daily, weekly, and monthly water use trends, helping you identify leaks early and manage consumption.
Common signs of leaks include:
- Dripping or running water sounds when fixtures are off
- Moist spots on floors or walls
- Unexplained water near appliances or outdoor spigots
- A sudden spike in your water bill
Start by inspecting:
- Toilets, faucets, showerheads
- Water heaters, pipes, and valves
- Outdoor hoses and irrigation systems
Visit the Water Meter Services page for a step-by-step leak detection guide and additional resources.
Don’t See Your Water Meter Question?
Call us at 401-845-5606
Drinking Water System
Water pressure in our system is determined by the elevation of the water in our three storage tanks, each serving different pressure zones.
- Properties located lower than the tank supplying their area tend to have higher pressure.
- Properties located higher than the tank tend to have lower pressure.
If pressure varies between faucets or rooms, the issue may be internal. Common causes include:
- Clogged faucet aerators (especially in kitchens or bathrooms)
- Partially closed water shutoff valves
- Malfunctioning appliances (dishwashers, washing machines)
- Aging or corroded private service lines
If you’ve checked your home and are still experiencing issues, please contact the Newport Water Division (NWD) for assistance.
This may be a sign of a water main break.
Please call the Newport Water Division immediately at to report the location. Prompt reporting helps us respond quickly and reduce service impacts.
Monday – Friday, 8AM – 4PM: 401-845-5600
Emergency After Hours Contact: 401-845-5826
To request new water service, irrigation service, or renew an existing connection:
- The property owner’s contractor must complete and submit a Water Service Application along with site plans for the property.
- The Newport Water Division will review the submission and determine whether to issue a permit.
Important: No connection to the water system may occur without written approval from NWD.
If your building needs a private fire service connection (such as for a sprinkler system):
- The property owner’s contractor must complete and submit a Private Fire Service Application, along with the required site plans.
- The site plan must be approved by Newport’s Fire Marshal’s Office before being submitted to NWD.
NWD will review the application and determine whether to issue a permit.
Note: Installation may not begin without written approval from the Newport Water Division.
NWD provides drinking water to Newport, most of Middletown, and parts of Portsmouth. NWD also supplies water to the Portsmouth Water & Fire District and Naval Station Newport, supplying water to nearly all of Aquidneck Island.
A property owner’s engineer or architect may request a determination of whether water service is available at a specific property by completing and submitting a Water Service Availability Request Application.
Please note: This application is for feasibility assessment only and does not constitute approval or authorization for new water service installation.
- Public Health: Delivering clean water helps prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.
- Daily Life: Safe, reliable water supports drinking, cooking, bathing, and cleaning.
- Public Safety: Water is essential for firefighting and emergency response.
- Economic Stability: Homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses all rely on consistent water service.
The system dates back to 1876 and has evolved over 150 years. Originally built to serve about 15,700 people, it now serves up to 100,000 seasonally. Ongoing investments ensure the aging infrastructure continues to serve our growing and modern needs.
Pipe materials have changed over time:
- Cast Iron (pre-1940): ~120-year lifespan
- Ductile Iron (since 1950s): ~100-year lifespan
- PVC & HDPE (since 1970s–1990s): ~70-year lifespan
- Lawton Valley WTP: Originally built in 1942; fully replaced in 2014
- Station 1 WTP: Built in 1991; upgraded extensively in 2014
Both plants feature advanced treatment technologies, including carbon filtration and seasonal odor control to maintain excellent water quality.
Aging pipes, equipment, and structures increase the risk of service disruptions or water quality issues. That’s why NWD continuously invests in:
- Capital improvement projects
- Preventative maintenance and inspections
- Emergency and corrective repairs
These efforts help minimize disruptions, extend infrastructure life, and maintain safe water delivery.
Primary sources include:
- On Aquidneck Island: Easton Ponds, Gardiner Pond, Nelson Pond, Lawton Valley Reservoir, St. Mary’s Pond, and Sisson Pond
- Off-Island: Nonquit Pond (Tiverton) and Watson Pond (Little Compton)
These reservoirs supply raw water to the treatment plants, where it’s treated before reaching customers.
Don’t See Your Drinking Water System Question?
Call us at 401-845-5600
NWD Capital Improvement Projects
Newport’s water system has been serving the community since 1876. As pipes, plants, and reservoirs age, CIPs are critical to:
- Replace aging and deteriorating infrastructure
- Meet modern water quality and safety standards
- Improve system reliability and performance
- Support public health, fire protection, and community growth
- Reduce emergency repairs and long-term maintenance costs
Proactive investment ensures that clean, safe water continues to flow now and for future generations.
CIPs are identified through a formal planning process required by the Rules and Regulations for Clean Water Infrastructure Plans. As part of this process, NWD prepares five-year Infrastructure Replacement Plans (IRPs) that outline the replacement or rehabilitation of key components of the water system.
Project planning is based on:
- Condition assessments of major infrastructure
- Input from NWD staff and field personnel
- Operational needs and system performance data
While CIPs generally follow the priorities set in the IRP, they remain flexible to accommodate emerging needs such as emergency failures, regulatory changes, or coordination with other City projects. This balanced approach ensures that NWD can proactively plan improvements while responding effectively to unforeseen challenges.
Projects are prioritized based on several factors:
- System condition and age
- Risk of failure or service disruption
- Regulatory compliance
- Public safety and health impact
- Coordination with other citywide projects (such as road repaving or sewer work)
- Availability of funding or grants
Past and future projects may include:
- Pump Station Upgrades
- Meter Replacement
- Water Trench Restoration
- Reservoir Dam Rehabilitation, Resilience & Reinforcement
- Water Main Replacements & Rehabilitation
- Treatment Plant Upgrades
- Lead Service Line Replacement
- Fire Hydrant Replacement
- Asset management & Technology Improvements
- Storage Tank Modernization
- Infrastructure Replacement Plan Updates
Yes, in part. Revenue from your water bill helps fund both:
- Daily operations (like treatment, testing, and maintenance)
- Some capital improvements
However, large-scale projects, such as treatment plant upgrades or major water main replacements, are often funded through a combination of water rates, grants, bonds, and low-interest loans from programs like the State Revolving Fund (SRF).
No. The Newport Water Division operates as an enterprise fund, meaning:
- It is financially self-sustaining
- Water-related revenues and expenses are kept separate from the City’s general fund
- Ratepayer dollars are reinvested directly back into the water system
This structure ensures dedicated funding for water infrastructure without relying on general tax revenue.
Don’t See Your NWD CIP Question?
Call us at 401-845-5600