Water Testing

Following the Wisconsin DNR guidelines for proper sample collection, we will conduct an onsite sample draw. Samples are time sensitive and need to arrive at a state certified lab within 36-48 hours to be considered valid. Please allow 3-5 business days for the lab to process the results. Due to the lab schedule and limited courier availability, water samples can not be taken on Friday's, Saturday's or Sunday mornings.   

 

The minimum water quality testing requirements for real estate transactions is for bacteria, nitrates and arsenic. Please check with your lender requirements as they may request additional testing for your loan. Most FHA and VA loans require testing for lead and nitrites in addition to the state requirements. 

 

The DNR recommends you test your private well at least once a year for coliform bacteria contamination and any time you notice a change in how the water looks, tastes or smells. Even if your water looks, tastes and smells good, it can contain harmful bacteria and viruses.

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Understanding your test results for bacteria, nitrates and arsenic per the Wisconsin DNR:

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• Stop drinking your water if the lab report indicates that bacteria is present in your water sample. Bacteria present in water is an indication that disease-causing bacteria may be present in the water. For more information, see Bacteriological Contamination of Drinking Water Wells [PDF].

• If the lab reports elevated levels of arsenic (greater than 10 parts per billion (ug/l)), you may want to stop drinking the water. For more information, see Arsenic in Drinking Water.

• If the lab reports elevated levels of nitrates (greater than 10 parts per million (mg/l)), avoid drinking the water if you're pregnant and stop giving the water to infants younger than six months or using the water to prepare infant formula. For more information, see Nitrate in Drinking Water [PDF].