The aim of this exploratory study was to examine and explain the role local populations play in the successful management of drinking water. In Bekes county, Eastern Hungary, 98% of the population receive piped water in their households from supplies of moderately treated (usually chlorinated) geothermal groundwater. Meeting the EU Drinking Water Directive parameters for a number of geogenic elements including arsenic and boron is a significant challenge for water managers. This mixed method research includes interviews, questionnaires and water samples. The results demonstrate distinct differences in the way policy and people construct quality. These differences are important because policy shapes management, whereas people as consumers dictate use; if they do not correspond, management cannot be successful.