Richard Arconti 
The importance of water testing in a home inspection cannot be overstated, as it plays a critical role in evaluating the safety and suitability of a property. A comprehensive home inspection aims to identify any potential issues, and water quality is a key component of this process.
Ensuring that the water supply is free from contaminants and meets the required health standards not only safeguards the well-being of the home’s occupants but also contributes to the overall value and desirability of the property.
By incorporating water testing into a home inspection, prospective buyers and homeowners alike can have peace of mind knowing that their water source is safe, reliable, and suitable for everyday use.
Key Takeaways:
- Water testing may be required for mortgage lenders and insurance providers when purchasing a new home
- Testing the water is critical to avoid costly repairs to appliances and negative health effects down the road
- It is recommended to have a test performed once per year, especially for private well water homes
- The best water test kit for home inspections is a certified laboratory test kit to analyze common water contaminants and provide a detailed report.
Water Quality Testing May Be Required
Water quality testing is an essential process that ensures the safety and reliability of the water supply. Many mortgage lenders are now requiring water testing as part of the home inspection process, especially for homes with private well water.
Although water system plants test the overall health of the water distributed to households once a year in Consumer Confidence Reports, a lot can happen between the treatment plant and the household’s water tap. Using an independent certified lab test not only helps identify potential contaminants or impurities but also aids in the timely detection of any issues within the home’s plumbing.
Testing water quality is more critical with private wells as they are not regulated by the municipality. Lenders will often require well water to be at least tested for total bacteria including E. coli and coliform. However, it is best practice to run a comprehensive test for common well water contaminants like iron, sulfur, nitrates, and more.
What Substances Does A Water Test Analyze?
When it comes to water testing, a variety of substances can be analyzed to determine the quality and safety of your drinking water. A proper lab test during home inspections will analyze dozens of contaminants including:
- Chlorine & Chloramine
- Fluoride
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
- Heavy Metal Contamination (Lead & Copper)
- Iron & Iron Bacteria
- PFAS, PFOA, PFOAS
- Microorganisms & Bacteria
- Water Hardness
Water testing is essential to ensure your drinking water is free from harmful contaminants that can cause serious health issues. Coliform bacteria, for example, can cause a range of illnesses if ingested and is typically found in human and animal waste.
Furthermore, hard water minerals can wreak havoc on water heaters, plumbing and appliances leading to costly repairs. While iron and manganese contamination can create unsightly staining on fixtures.
By analyzing the substance in your home’s tap water through comprehensive water testing, you can help ensure that your water is safe.
How Often Should Water Quality Be Tested?
The frequency of water quality testing depends on various factors, including the source of the water, local regulations, and any history of contamination. Homeowners are advised to use professional water testing at least once per year to monitor the safety and dependability of their tap water.
The Environmental Protection Agency advises testing water more frequently under the following circumstances:
- During home inspections for a new residence
- Noticeable changes in taste, odor, or appearance
- Following natural disasters like a flood or hurricane
- Significant mining or development activity nearby
- High-risk individuals or infants living in the home
Laboratory Testing And On-Site Testing
Laboratory and on-site testing are two distinct approaches to water analysis for a home inspector. Each testing method offers advantages and drawbacks for evaluating a home’s water quality.
Laboratory Testing
The best method for testing water during a home inspection is with a certified laboratory test.
This method involves collecting water samples and sending them to a specialized facility that adheres to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.
Laboratory testing effectively identifies contaminants in tap water and provides the exact concentration levels so you know if there are any safety or plumbing concerns. After the analysis is complete, you are provided a detailed report with any health or plumbing-related risks and the best next steps.
I recommend the Freshnss Labs water quality test that analyzes dozens of contaminants for both city and well water. Importantly, the tests are analyzed in a certified lab and accepted by mortgage lenders.
Laboratory Water Test Kit
Analyzed in a certified laboratory
Includes detailed report with EPA benchmarking and safety concerns
Home inspector professionals are eligible for discounts on multiple home water test orders. Please contact us for details on how we work with inspectors to grow their business.
On-Site Testing
This approach allows for the evaluation of a water quality test to be done directly at the source. In addition, on-site testing employs portable testing kits and equipment, enabling quick and cost-effective analysis without the need for sample transportation.
The downside is it does not same level of precision as laboratory testing. On-site testing remains a valuable tool for obtaining rapid insights into water status and identifying potential concerns. However, it also does not test for as many contaminants as a lab test.
By combining laboratory and on-site testing methods, homeowners can gain a more complete and thorough understanding of their water composition, ultimately ensuring the safety and well-being of their families and the environment.
Note that some states and communities restrict who can legally perform water quality testing for a paid fee. In some cases, on-site testing may not be an accepted method for lenders or E&O insurance.
Note: Some states and communities restrict who can legally perform water quality testing for a paid fee. In some cases, on-site testing may not be an accepted method for lenders or E&O insurance.
Additional Considerations
When considering water testing and quality, it is essential to take the water source into account.
Water Source: (Well water vs. city water)
Well water is sourced from private wells and typically requires more frequent testing as it is not monitored by any municipal authority. Homeowners with wells should be particularly attentive to their water quality, as factors such as nearby septic systems and agricultural runoff can impact the purity of the water.
On the other hand, city water is subject to regular testing and treatment as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act. Nonetheless, adding water quality testing to routine home maintenance is a prudent measure to ensure the safety and reliability of your water source, regardless of its source.
Local Regulations:
Local regulations play a crucial role in determining the appropriate water testing protocols and frequency. In addition, local health departments often establish specific guidelines and requirements for water testing, especially for well water users.
Homeowners should familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance. In addition, water testing kits and services should meet the standards set by local regulatory bodies to guarantee accurate and reliable results.
Geographic Location:
Geographic location can also impact water quality and testing requirements. Different regions may face unique water quality challenges due to factors such as geology, climate, and land use.
For example, areas with a history of industrial activity or mining might experience higher levels of heavy metals in the water source. In regions with a high prevalence of agriculture, there may be concerns about pesticide contamination.
Homeowners should be aware of the specific water quality issues relevant to their geographic location and adjust their testing strategies accordingly. To get a high-level view of potential groundwater contaminant concentrations, you can check the USGS Water Resources Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a home inspection water test cost?
However, a more comprehensive water analysis that includes testing the water for additional contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or the presence of septic tank contaminants can cost anywhere between $400 and $650.
Are water tests for home inspection accurate?
On the other hand, on-site or rapid test results are not EPA certified and won’t provide accurate data. It is important to note that not all tests may detect every possible contaminant, so homeowners should determine the most appropriate tests for their specific needs and concerns.
Does it matter if the home has well water or city water?
As a result, homeowners with well water should be more proactive about having their water tested, especially if there are nearby septic systems, agricultural runoff, or other potential sources of contamination.
Conversely, city water is regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act and undergoes routine testing and treatment. However, it is still recommended that homeowners periodically test their city water to ensure the safety and reliability of their supply.
Should I always test the water before purchasing a home?
Identifying and addressing these issues before purchasing a home can save potential buyers from costly repairs and health concerns in the future.
