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.
Select a city to view local well water testing services near you.
Nevada's arid climate and unique geology create specific groundwater conditions for private well owners. While much of the state's population is concentrated in urban areas served by public water, rural Nevada and suburban areas outside city limits often rely on private wells.
Nevada does not have a statewide mandate requiring private well water testing at property sale. The state takes a recommendation-based approach, with guidance from the Division of Environmental Protection and local health districts.
Naturally occurring arsenic is a significant concern in Nevada's groundwater. The state's geology-formed by volcanic activity and mineral deposits-can result in arsenic levels exceeding safe drinking water standards. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well water.
Nevada does not have a statewide law requiring private well water testing for property sales. Testing is recommended but voluntary for existing private domestic wells.
For new well construction, testing is typically required as part of the permitting and approval process. Check with your local health authority-county health department or health district-for specific requirements.
Local health districts (Clark County Health District, Washoe County Health District, etc.) may have their own programs and recommendations. They're good resources for understanding what testing is appropriate for your area.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence. Given Nevada's arsenic concerns, testing before purchase is prudent.
Arsenic is a priority concern in Nevada. It occurs naturally in groundwater across much of the state and can be present at levels exceeding EPA drinking water standards. Arsenic is odorless and tasteless, so testing is the only way to detect it.
The baseline bacteria and nitrate testing applies in Nevada as everywhere. Total coliform and E. coli testing checks sanitary integrity. Nitrate testing is particularly relevant near agricultural areas or septic systems.
Nevada's arid climate can affect water quality. High mineral content is common-hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), and specific minerals like fluoride may be elevated in some areas. These may not be health hazards but affect water usability and taste.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), uranium (some areas), radon (some areas), and any contaminants your local health district identifies as concerns for your specific area.
Every year
At minimum once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in Nevada depend on what you're testing for. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding arsenic (strongly recommended) and other parameters increases the cost.
Local health districts may provide testing services or can direct you to certified labs. The Nevada State Health Laboratory also provides testing services. Check with your health district for available options in your area.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive), chemical tests within 5-10 business days. Nevada's heat means paying attention to keeping bacteria samples cold during transport is especially important.
For real estate transactions, plan ahead. Allow adequate time for sample collection, transport, analysis, and any follow-up if issues are discovered.
Nevada well owners can choose from certified laboratories, health district programs, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results-especially if testing for real estate purposes-use labs certified for drinking water analysis in Nevada.
Local health districts are valuable resources. They understand local conditions and can advise on what to test for based on your specific location. Clark County and Washoe County health districts serve the most populated areas; other counties have their own health authorities.
Given Nevada's significant arsenic concerns, make sure your chosen provider includes arsenic testing at appropriate detection limits. Not all basic panels include arsenic-confirm what's covered.
Nevada's climate creates sample handling considerations. Bacteria samples need to stay cold-during hot weather, this requires extra attention. Confirm your provider has appropriate protocols for sample handling.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Nevada, from arsenic concerns to finding local services.