NYC building owners are responsible for ensuring that their drinking water tanks are inspected annually to maintain both water quality and regulatory compliance. By meeting the NYC Health Department’s requirements, building owners help guarantee safe, clean drinking water for residents and avoid potential fines.
When is the Submission Deadline for the 2024 Inspection?
All drinking water tanks must be inspected and tested annually for bacteriological water quality between January 1 and December 31. Building owners are required to submit their 2024 inspection report by January 15, 2025. As mandated by Section 17-194 of the NYC Administrative Code, these reports must be filed electronically by a qualified water tank inspector. Metro Group provides a seamless, professional solution with qualified inspectors and master plumbers ready to handle every step, ensuring your building meets NYC Health Department standards.
What is a Drinking Water Tank?
A drinking water tank, also referred to as a domestic tank or house water tank, is typically located on rooftops and provides pressurized water for buildings over six floors. Pumps move water up to the tank, and gravity allows water to flow to floors below whenever a faucet is used. The inspection applies to all tanks that store drinking water, even those with additional uses, like fire suppression. Separate fire suppression tanks and hot water tanks are not subject to inspection.
Why is Annual Inspection of Drinking Water Tanks Important?
Annual inspections are vital to ensuring NYC drinking water tanks are free of harmful bacteria, such as coliform, that could pose health risks. With many NYC buildings relying on rooftop tanks, the Health Department requires these inspections to safeguard public health.
How Does Metro Group Complete NYC Drinking Water Tank Inspections?
For the City required annual inspection, our specially trained tank inspectors, using the city required inspection form visually inspect the inside and outside of the tank noting any deficiency. The inspector will also collect the required water sample and transport it to our lab in Long Island City. The Tank inspection form will be emailed to the client for review with their dedicated account manager.
What Does the Inspection Include?
An annual water tank inspection covers:
- Visual Assessments: Checks of the tank’s structure, including pipes, access ladders, hatches, and screens.
- Sanitary Requirements: Verifying there’s no sediment, biological growth, floating debris, or evidence of pests.
- Bacteriological Sampling: Testing for bacteria, such as coliform and E. coli. These samples must be analyzed by a certified Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) laboratory.
What Happens if Bacteria is Found in Your Drinking Water Tank?
If a test indicates coliform bacteria, it must be reported to the NYC Health Department within 24 hours, followed by immediate corrective actions like tank cleaning. Metro Group also specializes in tank cleanings and water treatment chemistry to prevent bacteria growing in your water tanks, providing a comprehensive solution to keep your water safe. An annual cleaning is generally recommended as standard preventative maintenance for all domestic drinking water tanks.
What if My Building Doesn’t Have a Drinking Water Tank?
If your building no longer has a drinking water tank, please inform the NYC Health Department by submitting a ‘zero drinking water tanks’ report via the Water Tank Inspection Reporting application or by emailing watertanks@health.nyc.gov.
Who Can Perform Water Tank Cleaning?
Only specific qualified water tank professionals can clean, paint, or coat drinking water tanks, including licensed master plumbers, registered engineers, or individuals with commercial pesticide certification in Category 7G from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
How Should Inspection Reports Be Submitted and Stored?
Inspection reports are submitted through the NYC Health Department’s Drinking Water Tank Inspection Reporting system. Both the inspector and the property owner must retain copies of the report for five years, and if requested, results should be provided within five business days.
Why Choose Metro Group for Your Drinking Water Tank Inspection?
Metro Group’s expertise includes certified water technologists and an exclusive in-house Microbiology laboratory with CDC ELITE and NYS ELAP laboratory services. These resources allow us to conduct thorough, compliant inspections and provide rapid, accurate testing for any bacterial contamination, such as coliform or E. coli. With Metro Group, you’re not only meeting the annual inspection requirement, but you’re ensuring the safety and health of your building’s water supply. Contact us to manage your lead testing compliance and get a free quote on your Drinking Water Tank Inspection.
How to Proactively Avoid Issues with Your Drinking Water Tank?
To maintain the highest water quality, Metro Group also recommends preventative annual cleanings of drinking water tanks. These cleanings help control sediment buildup, prevent bacterial growth, and reduce the risk of contamination, keeping your tank in optimal condition year-round.
For expert inspection, testing, and preventative cleaning services, Metro Group is your trusted partner in maintaining a safe and compliant water supply. Reach out today to ensure your building’s water tank inspection is done right. Don’t wait—get it on the calendar now and schedule your drinking water tank cleaning.
