There are still many small water systems across the country using water sources which are either surface water or groundwater "under the direct influence of surface water" and which do not meet the treatment requirements of the Surface Water Treatment Regulation. These systems must hire consultants who can assist them in coming into full compliance with the existing regulations and into a position where their treatment facilities can also allow them to meet pending and future regulations with minimal, if any, alterations. This paper will provide you with a direction you can follow to successfully hire a consultant.