Who already tests Surfside water
- WASD tests at its plants and across its system; results are in its annual Water Quality Report.
- The Town of Surfside performs monthly testing required by the Florida Department of Health to confirm its distribution system is operating properly, according to its Public Works guide.
- Your building is responsible for its own pumps, tanks and pipes, which are not part of either program.
Utilities that deliver water to homes publish an annual Water Quality Report, also called a Consumer Confidence Report. For the Town's current report, ask Public Works at (305) 861-4863.
What Jorge measures
- Total and free chlorine: the chloramine residual at your tap.
- Hardness: what remains after WASD's softening.
- Total dissolved solids: useful for drinking water choices.
- pH, color and odor: including anything you have noticed.
See what happens during a home water assessment.
Color, cloudiness and timing
If you saw yellow or brown water, the Town's guide explains that disturbances in the main, such as valve exercising or hydrant use, can release mineral deposits that clear after flushing. Cloudy water is usually trapped air. Note the date, which taps and whether it cleared. If it does not clear, call Public Works. A test is most useful on an ordinary day, so you see your normal water.
When to use a certified lab
Lead at a specific tap, PFAS and bacteria require a certified laboratory. WASD lists lab numbers for lead sampling data in its report (786-552-4181 and 786-552-4738), and its service line inventory is at miamidade.gov/knowyourpipes. For pipes inside Surfside, ask the Town. Read home screening vs. lab analysis.
Before the visit
- Ask building management whether there are storage tanks or booster pumps and when risers were replaced.
- Note whether hot water is central or in your unit.
- Check your Eye On Water account for any leak alerts or odd use.
- List the taste, smell or stain questions you want answered.
Reading WASD's report yourself
| Line in WASD's 2025 report | Main system | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Chloramines | 2.5 ppm (ND to 4.0) | Taste, smell, filter choice |
| Sodium | 33 ppm | Relevant to softener decisions |
| Total trihalomethanes | 50 ppb, limit 80 | Disinfection byproduct |
| Fluoride | Not added since June 6, 2025 | Natural 0.1 to 0.3 ppm |
Book it
Call, text or WhatsApp Jorge at (305) 793-5974. The test is free, takes about an hour including the explanation, and carries no obligation.
https://www.townofsurfsidefl.gov/docs/default-source/town-news-articles/water-quality-explained-by-public-works.jpg
https://www.miamidade.gov/resources/water/documents/2025-water-quality-report.pdf
https://www.epa.gov/ccr/ccr-information-consumers
https://www.townofsurfsidefl.gov/departments-services/utilities/eye-on-water
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist