Select a city below to view local well water testing services in your area. Each city page lists providers offering lab testing, field sampling, or mail-in well water tests.
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Florida's unique hydrogeology-dominated by the porous limestone of the Floridan Aquifer-creates distinct water quality considerations for the state's many private well owners. From the springs of North Florida to the shallow surficial aquifers of South Florida, groundwater conditions vary significantly across the state.
The Florida Department of Health is clear: the state does not require well sampling when private homes are sold, and does not require routine sampling of private home wells. This puts Florida firmly in the 'owner responsibility' category, where testing is recommended but not mandated for typical single-family wells.
However, Florida's testing picture is more nuanced than a simple 'no requirements' answer. County health departments may have local rules, especially for newly constructed wells or repairs. And wells serving multiple rental units or commercial properties may fall under regulated categories that do require testing. Understanding which category your well falls into is the first step in knowing what applies to you.
Florida does not require well water sampling when private homes are sold. The Florida Department of Health explicitly states this: there's no statewide point-of-sale testing mandate for single-family private wells, and no requirement for routine sampling during normal ownership.
This changes if your well isn't a simple private home well. Wells serving multiple rental units, commercial properties, or other configurations may be classified as 'Limited Use' public water systems under the Safe Drinking Water Act. These regulated systems have testing requirements that don't apply to typical single-family wells.
Some county health departments enforce local rules requiring testing of newly constructed wells or after well repairs. These requirements are county-specific, so if you're drilling a new well or doing significant work on an existing one, check with your local county health department about what's required.
Real estate transactions often involve testing anyway. Mortgage lenders-particularly for FHA, VA, and USDA loans-frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence. So while Florida law doesn't mandate it, practical reality often includes a test.
The baseline testing recommended everywhere applies in Florida: 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.
Florida's limestone aquifers create specific water quality characteristics. Hard water is common-high in calcium and magnesium from dissolved limestone. While not a health hazard, it affects taste and causes scaling. Sulfur (hydrogen sulfide) causes the 'rotten egg' smell that some Florida well owners experience.
Florida's shallow water tables and porous geology can make wells vulnerable to contamination from surface sources. Septic systems, agricultural runoff, and stormwater can introduce bacteria and nitrates. After hurricanes or significant flooding, testing becomes especially important.
Arsenic occurs naturally in some Florida groundwater, and some areas have documented radionuclide concerns. If you're unsure what to test for beyond the basics, your county health department can provide guidance on contaminants of concern in your specific area of the state.
Every year
For new properties and every 3-5 years thereafter
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in Florida depend on what you're testing for and which lab you use. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding metals, specialty contaminants, or comprehensive panels increases the cost.
Florida county health departments often provide or facilitate well water testing, sometimes at reduced rates compared to private labs. Check with your local county health department to see what testing services or programs are available in your area.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive and must reach the lab within 24-30 hours), chemical tests for nitrates and metals within 5-10 business days. Florida's warm climate means paying extra attention to keeping bacteria samples cold during transport.
If you're testing after a hurricane or flooding event, labs may be busier than normal. Plan accordingly and communicate with your chosen lab about expected turnaround times.
Florida well owners can choose from certified laboratories, county health department programs, sampling services, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, look for labs certified for drinking water analysis in Florida.
County health departments are often a good starting point. Many Florida counties offer well water testing services or can direct you to approved labs. They can also advise on contaminants of concern in your specific area and any local requirements that may apply.
Given Florida's climate, sample handling matters more than in cooler states. Bacteria samples need to stay cold and reach the lab quickly-follow instructions carefully. If you're using mail-in testing, make sure the service has a system that works in Florida's heat.
Treatment companies throughout Florida offer testing, sometimes free or at reduced cost. While convenient for screening, remember their primary business is selling treatment equipment. If they recommend expensive systems, consider independent verification before investing.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Florida, from requirements to dealing with sulfur smell.