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Why Do I Need a Sanitary Survey?

Public water systems (PWSs) undergo sanitary surveys to assess their capability to supply safe drinking water to consumers. ADEQ conducts onsite sanitary surveys at all public water systems located within the state, except where authority has been delegated to Pima County Department of Environmental Quality and Maricopa County Environmental Services Department.

Sanitary surveys provide an opportunity for ADEQ to perform a comprehensive and accurate review of the system's components and to educate the owners/operators about proper operations and maintenance. The survey evaluates eight elements:

  1. Source
  2. Treatment
  3. Distribution System
  4. Finished Water Storage
  5. Pumps/Pump Facilities and Controls
  6. Monitoring/Reporting/Data Verification
  7. Water System Management/Operations
  8. Operator Compliance with State Requirements

How Often Do I Need a Sanitary Survey?

Sanitary surveys are conducted at least every three to five years, depending on the PWS classification:

  • Community Water System (C) – Every three years
  • Non-Community Water System (NC) – Every five years
  • Transient Non-Community (NTNC) – Every five years

Want to know what to expect for your sanitary survey? | Learn More >