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Delaware may be small, but private wells serve a significant portion of the state's population, particularly in Kent and Sussex Counties where rural and suburban communities rely on groundwater. The state's coastal plain geology-with its shallow aquifers and sandy soils-creates specific water quality considerations that well owners should understand.
Currently, Delaware does not have a statewide mandate requiring private well water testing for property sales. Proposals for point-of-sale testing requirements have been introduced in the legislature but have not become law. This means testing remains voluntary from a state law perspective, though lenders and buyers may have their own requirements.
What Delaware does emphasize is owner responsibility. The state's public health guidance recommends regular testing and inspection of private wells, treating it as an essential part of home ownership rather than a one-time event. Given the shallow aquifers and agricultural activity in much of the state, following this guidance is particularly important for Delaware well owners.
Delaware does not currently have a statewide law requiring private well water testing for property transfers. Proposed legislation (such as HB 370) that would have created a pre-closing water test requirement did not pass in the most recent legislative session.
This means that, as of now, testing is not legally mandated when you buy or sell a home with a private well. However, real estate practice often includes testing anyway. Seller disclosure forms typically ask about well testing history, and many buyers request testing as part of their due diligence.
Mortgage lenders-especially for FHA, VA, and USDA loans-frequently require water quality documentation as a condition of financing. So even without a state law, you may find yourself needing a test to complete a real estate transaction.
State health guidance emphasizes that private well owners are responsible for their water quality. The Delaware Division of Public Health recommends annual sampling and inspection, treating testing as a routine part of well ownership rather than something you only do when selling. This voluntary guidance reflects what public health experts consider best practice.
The baseline testing recommended everywhere applies in Delaware: total coliform bacteria and E. coli to check sanitary integrity, plus nitrates which pose health risks to infants and pregnant women. Annual testing for these parameters is standard practice.
Delaware's coastal plain geology and agricultural activity create some specific considerations. Nitrate contamination from fertilizers and poultry operations is a documented concern in parts of the state, particularly in Sussex County. Shallow aquifers in sandy soils can be more vulnerable to surface contamination.
If your property has a history that suggests potential contamination-near agricultural operations, old industrial sites, or areas with known groundwater issues-consider testing for additional parameters. Arsenic can occur naturally in some formations. Near coastal areas, salt water intrusion may be a consideration.
For contaminants like lead, remember that the source is often your plumbing rather than the well itself. If you have older pipes or fixtures, a first-draw lead sample can identify whether your household plumbing is contributing lead to your drinking water.
Every year
For new properties and every 3-5 years thereafter
Based on location and property history
Well water testing costs in Delaware depend on what you're testing for and which lab you use. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding metals, expanded panels, or specialty contaminants increases the cost.
Delaware's compact size means most areas have reasonable access to certified labs. Some labs offer walk-in sample drop-off; others accept shipped samples. The Delaware Division of Public Health may be able to provide guidance on testing resources in your area.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive and need to reach the lab within 24-30 hours), chemical tests for nitrates and metals within 5-10 business days. If you're testing for a real estate closing, make sure to factor in adequate time for sample collection, analysis, and any needed follow-up.
For time-sensitive real estate transactions, ask labs about their current turnaround before committing. Some offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
Delaware well owners can choose from certified laboratories, sampling services, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results-especially if you're testing for a real estate transaction-look for labs certified for drinking water analysis.
Certified labs follow standardized testing methods and quality controls. They can provide proper documentation that lenders and buyers will accept. Some labs have walk-in locations where you can drop off samples; others work entirely through mail.
Given Delaware's agricultural landscape, make sure your chosen provider can test for nitrates and other contaminants relevant to your area. If you're near poultry operations, fertilized farmland, or other agricultural activity, nitrate testing is particularly important.
Treatment companies may offer testing, sometimes at reduced cost. While this can be useful for screening, be aware that their primary business is selling treatment equipment. If they recommend expensive systems based on their test, consider getting independent verification from a certified lab.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Delaware, from requirements to finding labs.