Water Quality Initiatives: Testing for Lead

University Housing, in partnership with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), conducts water sampling in our apartments to check for lead. This proactive measure is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the ongoing safety of our drinking water. In 2024-2025 we conducted tests in 92% of our buildings and found no widespread issues. This summer we started that process again and have already completed testing in about 50% of our buildings, again with no widespread issues. As we continue to test the remaining locations, we are prepared to address any specific concerns that may come up.

Steps You Can Take for Water Safety

• Run the water for approximately 60 seconds daily before use.

• Do not use hot water for drinking or food preparation.

• Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, or filling your pitcher.

• Look for “Filtered Drinking Water” signage when in other campus buildings.

• If you choose to purchase a water filter, or are already using one, please ensure the filter is certified for lead with an NSF certification. Only filter cold water.

More Information

All of University Apartments receive water from the City of Madison. This water comes primarily from Well 19, which serves the UW campus, the UW hospital, the Village of Shorewood, and nearby Madison neighborhoods. The city closely monitors all the water in the system. For detailed water quality information, visit the City of Madison Water Quality (https://www.cityofmadison.com/water/water-quality).

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we take these proactive steps to prioritize your health and safety.

If you have questions, please email University Apartments at universityapartments@housing.wisc.edu.