GSA office faces ceiling collapse, rodent infestation and water quality concerns

A GSA employee at a Washington, D.C., federal office building voiced concerns about the safety of the facility’s water supply, asking, “Do we need to look at the ceiling before going to the bathroom? Can we actually trust the water is safe to drink?” The question came after reports of intermittent leaks and visible water damage in the building’s plumbing system, prompting staff to question whether the water quality could be compromised.

The General Services Administration has begun an immediate review of the building’s water infrastructure. Independent testing of the potable water has been ordered, and the agency has engaged a third‑party environmental health firm to assess potential contamination from lead, bacteria, or other pollutants. Meanwhile, the GSA has issued a temporary advisory to staff to use bottled water for drinking and to report any visible signs of mold or water damage.

The agency plans to complete testing within the next 10 business days and will publish the results publicly. If any contaminants are detected, the GSA will implement remediation measures, including pipe replacement or water treatment upgrades, and will coordinate with local health authorities to ensure the safety of all occupants.