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Water Services

Water Quality

Water Services
The City of Richmond's Water Service Department, together with the GVRD, strives to provide consistent and high-quality water to our customers. We endeavour to provide water that meets and exceeds the Health Act with clean, clear water that is free of unpleasant tastes or odours.

The 2010 Annual Water Quality Report reviews the procedures that the City of Richmond uses to provide clean water.

Water Flushing Program
Annual flushing of the water distribution system is important as it allows accumulated silts and organic matter to be flushed out of the watermain. Sediments reduce the effectiveness of disinfectants (chlorine) used to fight the growth of bacteria in the water system. By removing sediments, we can reduce the level of chlorine used to disinfect the water.


Flushing usually begins in March of each year, and continues until May, and is usually conducted after business hours. Flushing may result in pressure fluctuation and some discoloration and sediment in the water that reaches your home. This should be for a short duration only. However, if your water appears discoloured, run the cold water tap until the water clears.

Water Testing
To ensure the City's water is safe and meets acceptable standards, our crews collect drinking water samples each week from 30 locations in the water distribution network. Over the course of a year, approximately 1550 water samples are collected and tested for microbiological, organic and inorganic contaminants which may affect the health of water users. The majority of samples are negative, however, if there is evidence of bacteria, the system is flushed and rechlorinated and further samples are taken to ensure that bacteria has been eliminated.


If you notice discolouring, odour or taste problems with your water, please contact the Water Services Foreman at 604-270-8721.


Volunteer to be part of the Richmond Water Meter Program