What should I do if my rental's tap water looks, smells, or tastes strange?

Immediately report the issue to your landlord in writing and request prompt repairs. If unresolved, contact your county health department or ADEM for assistance.

Can my landlord be held responsible for unsafe drinking water?

Yes. Landlords must ensure your water meets health standards and address any safety concerns under Alabama tenant law.

Is bottled water or an alternative source required if my tap water is unsafe?

While the law does not require landlords to provide bottled water, they must fix unsafe water issues promptly. Failure to do so may justify additional actions or remedies for tenants.

What if my water comes from a private well?

If your rental uses a private well, landlords still must provide safe, potable water. You can request water testing and consult ADEM or your local health department for support.

Safe Drinking Water Requirements for Alabama Renters

Health & Safety Standards Alabama published: June 21, 2025

Access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for your health and peace of mind. If you’re renting a home or apartment in Alabama, it’s important to understand your rights and your landlord’s responsibilities when it comes to the quality and safety of your water supply. Here’s what every Alabama renter should know about safe drinking water standards and how to address any concerns.

What Are Drinking Water Standards for Alabama Rentals?

Alabama landlords must provide rental housing that is safe, inhabitable, and up to local health standards. This includes ensuring the water supply is safe to drink and meets federal, state, and local health codes. Under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords are required to:

Comply with basic building and health codes affecting health and safety
Maintain plumbing, including water supply and facilities, in good and safe working order
Respond to maintenance requests about water contamination or unsafe water supplies

Municipal water systems are regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and monitored by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). If your rental uses a private well, different rules may apply.

How to Know If Your Water Is Safe

There are several indicators your drinking water might be unsafe, such as discoloration, odd tastes or odors, or visible sediments. Your city or county health department can provide reports on local water quality. If you are concerned, you can:

Request your landlord address the issue in writing
Contact your local health department for water testing resources
Consult the ADEM list of certified drinking water labs for independent testing

Your Rights and Landlord’s Duties Regarding Water Safety

The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Code of Alabama Title 35, Chapter 9A) protects your right to safe, usable utilities. If your water is unsafe or not being supplied as required, your landlord must resolve the issue promptly.

Action Steps for Alabama Renters

Notify your landlord in writing, detailing the water issue (e.g., contamination, foul smell, discoloration)
Allow your landlord a reasonable time (typically 14 days) to fix the problem, unless it is an emergency
If the landlord does not respond, you may be entitled to seek remedies including withholding rent or breaking your lease, but only after following the notification process
For rental units using municipal water, you may request a copy of the provider’s annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) showing local water quality and violations
If there is an imminent health risk, you may contact the ADEM Drinking Water Branch or your county health department for immediate inspection

Timely, documented communication is key in resolving water safety issues with your landlord or public agencies.

Key Forms and Official Resources

Statement of Complaint (No specific form number):
Used for reporting unsafe rental conditions, including water issues, to your local health department. Contact your county health department to file a complaint in writing or in person.
Example: If your tap water is brown and the landlord has not responded, file a complaint with your county health department to prompt an inspection.
Tenant’s Written Notice of Violation (No official state form):
When notifying your landlord about unsafe water, include the date, a description of the issue, and allow reasonable time to make repairs, as per Alabama law. Templates may be available from the Alabama Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division but are not required to use a specific form.
Example: Send a dated, signed letter to your landlord describing persistent water problems and requesting repairs within 14 days.

Tip: Always keep a dated copy of any notice or complaint you send. This will help protect your rights if further action is needed.

Where to File Complaints or Get Help

In Alabama, rental housing disputes—including issues around health and safety—are typically handled by local courts, but enforcement of housing standards often starts with your city or county health department. The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act lays out your rights (see Title 35, Chapter 9A), but there is no centralized state housing tribunal. For serious issues, you may ultimately need to seek help through district court.

FAQ: Common Questions about Drinking Water in Alabama Rentals

What should I do if my rental's tap water looks, smells, or tastes strange?
Immediately report the issue to your landlord in writing and request prompt repairs. If unresolved, contact your county health department or ADEM for assistance.
Can my landlord be held responsible for unsafe drinking water?
Yes. Landlords must ensure your water meets health standards and address any safety concerns under Alabama tenant law.
Is bottled water or an alternative source required if my tap water is unsafe?
While the law does not require landlords to provide bottled water, they must fix unsafe water issues promptly. Failure to do so may justify additional actions or remedies for tenants.
What if my water comes from a private well?
If your rental uses a private well, landlords still must provide safe, potable water. You can request water testing and consult ADEM or your local health department for support.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alabama Renters

Your landlord is legally responsible for providing safe, drinkable water
Document all water-related issues and communications in writing
Contact local health authorities or ADEM if problems persist

Knowing your rights helps ensure your rental home remains a healthy and safe place to live.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – Tenant rights information and complaint options
Alabama Department of Environmental Management Drinking Water Branch – Water quality and safety oversight
County Health Departments Directory – Report local rental and water safety problems
Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Legislation covering tenant rights and landlord duties