Frequently Asked Questions

Unlike municipal water, private wells aren't regulated or monitored by any government agency. You're responsible for your own water quality. Contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, and lead can be present with no taste, smell, or color — the only way to know is to test.

At minimum, once a year for bacteria and nitrates. Test more frequently if you notice changes in taste, smell, or color; if there's flooding or construction near your well; after a new well is drilled; or if someone in your home is pregnant or has a compromised immune system.

Start with the basics: coliform bacteria, nitrates/nitrites, and pH. From there, test for contaminants common in your region — arsenic and uranium in the West, radon in the Northeast, agricultural chemicals ( pesticides, herbicides) in farming areas. PFAS testing is increasingly recommended nationwide.

A basic test covers bacteria, nitrates, and a few key minerals — typically $50–$150. A comprehensive panel adds heavy metals, VOCs, pesticides, PFAS, and more — usually $200–$500+. Start basic, then expand based on your location and results.

The lab will send you a sample kit with specific instructions. Generally: run your tap for 2–3 minutes before collecting, use the sterile container provided, and follow handling instructions carefully (especially for bacteria samples, which are temperature-sensitive). Ship or deliver promptly.

Many certified labs offer mail-in testing. They ship you a kit, you collect the sample and mail it back. Turnaround is typically 5–10 business days. Check the lab's website or call ahead — bacteria samples have strict shipping requirements.

Results list each contaminant alongside the detected level and the EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) — the legal limit for public water. If your level exceeds the MCL, action is recommended. Labs often include a brief interpretation, but you can also contact your local health department for help.

A certified lab has been independently tested and approved by a state or national accreditation body (like TNI/NELAC) to accurately measure specific contaminants. Always use a certified lab — results from uncertified labs may not be reliable or accepted by health authorities.

Yes. Most dangerous contaminants — arsenic, nitrates, radon, bacteria, PFAS — are completely undetectable by sight, taste, or smell. Clear water is not the same as safe water.

Basic panels run $50–$150. Comprehensive panels covering 50–100+ parameters are typically $200–$500. PFAS-specific tests range from $75–$200 as add-ons. Prices vary by lab and location — use this directory to compare options in your area.

Contact your local health department or a licensed water treatment specialist. Common solutions include UV disinfection ( bacteria), reverse osmosis filters ( nitrates, arsenic, PFAS), or water softeners (hardness, iron). Retest after any treatment to confirm it's working.

Absolutely — and do it before closing if possible. Many mortgage lenders require it. Previous owners may not know what's in the water, and problems aren't always disclosed. A full baseline test gives you a starting point and peace of mind.

For private wells, there's no federal requirement. Some states and counties require testing when a property is sold. Your lender may also require it. Check your state's requirements, but even where it's optional, annual testing is strongly recommended.

A water test analyzes the chemical and biological content of your water. A water inspection looks at the physical condition of your well — casing, cap, depth, location relative to septic systems. Both are valuable; they answer different questions.

Look for a lab that: is state-certified for drinking water testing, accepts samples from your state, offers the specific tests you need, and has clear instructions for sample collection and shipping. This directory lists certified labs with contact info, test panels, and ratings to help you compare.