All sources of drinking water contain some naturally occurring contaminants.

However, elevated amounts can cause health issues.


Water testing is  typically required for FHA loans and refinancing, VA loans and refinancing, as well as some other types of loans.


Typical test parameters:

  • FHA and VA Mortgages:  Coliform, E. Coli, Nitrates, Nitrites, Lead

  • Rural Development:  Coliform, E. Coli, Nitrates, Nitrites

Other elements commonly requested for testing:

Arsenic, Iron, Harness, Chloride, Fluoride, Sulfates


Special Package of 10 elements for a more comprehensive test:

Coliform (Bacteria), Nitrates, Iron, Hardness, Fluoride, Sodium, Chloride, Sulfates, Lead, Arsenic



  • The well has a history of bacterial contamination

  • The septic system has recently malfunctioned

  • Family members or house guests have recurrent incidents of gastrointestinal illness

  • An infant is living in the home, or

  • To monitor the efficiency and performance of home water treatment equipment.

Total coliform is the most commonly used indicator of bacterial contamination. The presence of coliform bacteria is an “indicator” of a well’s possible contamination from human or animal wastes. Total coliform are a broad category of bacteria, most of which pose no threat to humans. Some come from fecal matter; others naturally occur in soils, vegetation, insects, etc. The presence of coliform bacteria in well water can be a harbinger of worsening water quality. In some cases, more specific tests for fecal contamination, such as E.coli, may be used.

Common sources of nitrate to well water are fertilizers, septic systems, animal manure, and leaking sewer lines. Nitrate also occurs naturally from the breakdown of nitrogen compounds in soil and rocks. High levels of nitrate in well water present a health concern and can also indicate the presence of other contaminants, such as bacteria and pesticides. Drinking large amounts of water with nitrates is particularly threatening to infants (for example, when mixed in formula).


There are certain contaminants specific to your locality. Arsenic and radon are two examples of water-quality concerns in certain areas. Arsenic occurs in water that comes into contact with some types of rocks and soils. Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that comes from the natural radioactive breakdown of uranium in the ground. Exposure to radon can come from two sources: the air in your home, which seeps up through the foundation, and your well water.