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1. I'm concerned about lead in my water (home, school or business). Where can I get more information or get tested?

The National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-5323 can answer questions about lead in water or the EPA's Safe Drinking Water hotline at 1-800-426-4791. If concerned about individual exposure, see your physician.

Plus, Newport News Waterworks regularly tests drinking water for contaminants, including lead.
In addition, any Waterworks customer may receive one free tap water lead test. Please call Waterworks Customer Services at 757-926-1000 (Monday thru Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) for details. Additional water quality information can be found on the Waterworks web site below.

2. Is Newport News Waterworks open on weekends or evenings?

Waterworks customer service and most administrative offices are closed evenings and weekends, however there is staff on duty 24/7 including an operations dispatcher for water emergencies. Water bills can be paid online and over the phone 24/7. Normal work hours for customer service issues are Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You can find additional information on their website below, including online or telephone options for bill paying, which can be done 24 hours a day. The customer service number is 757-926-1000.

3. Will the Fire Department fill up my pool?

That is not a service they provide. You will need to fill your pool yourself.

4. What are the levels of water use restrictions that Newport News Waterworks has at its disposal?

There are four levels of water use restrictions that Waterworks can impose to help extend water supplies during major droughts or water emergencies.

Tier 1 - advisory
Residents are asked to voluntarily do their part to make water supplies last longer. This includes minimizing all outdoor water use such as lawn watering and car washing.

Tier 2 - mandatory
Worsening conditions allow for higher water rates and restricted water use as determined by the situation.

Tier 3 - severe
Worsening conditions allow for higher water rates and restricted water use as determined by the situation.

Tier 4 - emergency
Worsening conditions allow for higher water rates and severely restricted use may include suspension of new connections.

For more information, contact Newport News Waterworks Customer Service at 757-926-1000.

5. Who can give our business permission to use water from a fire hydrant?

Fire hydrants are the property of Newport News Waterworks. All usage is controlled by them. Contact them at 757-926-1000.

6. As a new resident, how can I set up trash (garbage) service?

As a new resident in a single family home, you set up garbage service automatically when you get a Waterworks account in your name. The telephone number for Newport News Waterworks is 757-926-1000.

7. Why is the city digging up the street at night?

If it is the city, it may be because of a sewer leak that has to be repaired by Public Works or it may be Waterworks fixing a water main. This type work is done in “off hours” due to urgency – it may affect many residents or may be posing a health or safety concern. Please note that Virginia Natural Gas repairs gas line leaks and Dominion Power repairs power lines that are down.

Your first step should be to go out to see what color truck it is and/or see what words are on the truck. Waterworks trucks are blue. Virginia Natural Gas and Dominion Power both have their name on their trucks.

8. What is the process I need to follow to switch from a well to city water?

You would need to speak to Newport News Waterworks, 757-926-1000, regarding running any water lines on your street and to your property. You may also need to install a water line to your house or do other plumbing work, so you or your contractor may need a permit.