A private water supply is one that isn't provided by a water company, which in the case of Shropshire is largely Severn Trent. Private supplies can come from a well, borehole or a spring, and are usually found in the more rural areas of the county. The supply often serves just one home, but some supplies serve several. In Shropshire, there are more than 2000 known private water supplies serving approximately 14,000 people.

Safe drinking water is essential to good health. All private water supplies can pose a threat to health unless they're properly protected, maintained and treated. They may become contaminated with bacteria or other substances. You may not be able to tell whether your water is safe, as contamination may not change the smell, taste or colour of the water.

We have a duty to monitor, risk assess and sample private water supplies.