Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. CBRM tap water meets or exceeds national drinking water standards. We follow all requirements set by the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change, and our team performs more than 12,000 water quality tests every year.
Please report it immediately by calling 311. Your water may be temporarily shut off while repairs are completed.
CBRM posts service alerts on the website, social media, and sometimes issues direct notices for planned work. Emergency repairs may occur without notice, but updates are provided as soon as possible.
Discoloured water is usually caused by changes in water flow, like a nearby main break or routine flushing. Run your cold tap for a few minutes until the water clears. If it doesn’t improve, report it by calling 311.
A boil water advisory means you must bring water to a rolling boil for one full minute before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth or washing food. Advisories are posted on the CBRM website and social media.
Provincial regulations require a chlorine level between 0.2 mg/L and 0.4 mg/L throughout the system. Chlorine levels may vary slightly through the year, but they always stay within the approved range. We add enough chlorine at the treatment plant to ensure even the farthest homes meet the minimum safety level.
Chlorine is the only disinfectant that provides a residual, meaning it continues to work as water moves through the distribution system. UV and ozone are effective at the treatment plant, but do not maintain protection once water leaves the facility. That’s why chlorine is required to keep water safe all the way to your tap.
Chlorine taste usually fades quickly. Try filling a jug or pitcher and placing it in the fridge for a few hours; the taste will naturally dissipate.
Filters are optional. CBRM tap water is already safe to drink without any additional treatment. Filters may improve taste or odour, but they don’t necessarily make the water healthier. If you use a filter, remember to maintain it properly as an unmaintained filter can actually lower water quality.
Your shut-off valve is usually located where the water line enters your home or building. Every adult in the home should know where it is and test it regularly to make sure it works.
CBRM also has a utility valve at the property line, but this valve is for Water Utility use and shouldn’t be relied on to control water inside the home. Regularly checking your indoor valve will ensure you can quickly stop the water during an emergency.
CBRM flushes the system twice a year, spring and fall, to maintain water quality and flow. You may notice temporary low pressure or discolouration during this time.
Learn more at Hydrants & Flushing.