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New Hampshire has a high percentage of households relying on private wells-among the highest in the nation. The state's bedrock geology, composed largely of granite and metamorphic rock, creates specific water quality considerations that every well owner should understand.
New Hampshire takes private well water quality seriously. While testing isn't mandated at property sale for all wells, the state recommends comprehensive testing and provides significant resources through NHDES. Some municipalities may have local requirements.
Naturally occurring contaminants are a significant concern in New Hampshire. Arsenic, radon in water, and uranium are found in the bedrock that many wells tap into. These contaminants are odorless and tasteless, making testing the only way to know if they're present in your water.
New Hampshire doesn't have a statewide mandate requiring water quality testing at property sale for all existing private wells. However, the state strongly recommends testing, and NHDES provides extensive guidance on what to test for.
For new well construction, testing is required before the well can be approved for use. The parameters required may vary, but typically include bacteria and key contaminants of concern.
Some New Hampshire towns may have their own requirements for property transfers or other circumstances. Check with your local health officer or planning board to understand any local rules that may apply.
Real estate transactions commonly include testing regardless of legal requirements. Mortgage lenders often require water quality documentation. Given New Hampshire's known bedrock contaminants-arsenic, radon, uranium-buyers routinely request comprehensive testing.
NHDES recommends comprehensive testing for New Hampshire wells. Beyond the baseline bacteria and nitrates, testing for arsenic, radon in water, and uranium is particularly important given the state's bedrock geology.
Arsenic occurs naturally in New Hampshire's bedrock and can be present at levels exceeding EPA standards. It has no taste or smell. Testing is essential, especially for wells drilled into bedrock. The NHDES BeWell Informed program provides guidance on arsenic testing.
Radon in water is a concern in areas with granite bedrock. When water is used in the home, radon is released into indoor air. Testing water for radon is recommended, especially if you've found elevated radon in your home's air.
Uranium occurs in some New Hampshire bedrock formations. Like arsenic, it's undetectable without testing. Other parameters to consider: lead (especially with older plumbing), pH (can be quite low in some areas), manganese, and fluoride.
Every year
At minimum once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in New Hampshire vary based on the panel. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are affordable. Comprehensive panels covering arsenic, radon, uranium, and other New Hampshire priorities cost more but are important given the state's geology.
Several certified labs serve New Hampshire, including the NHDES Laboratory. The state provides resources to help well owners find testing options. Some local health departments may offer testing or can provide referrals.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days, chemical tests within 5-10 business days. Radon in water may have its own timeline. Plan accordingly for real estate transactions.
NHDES provides educational resources through their BeWell Informed program, helping well owners understand what to test for and how to interpret results.
New Hampshire well owners should use certified laboratories that can test for the range of contaminants relevant to the state's geology. Confirm your lab can handle arsenic, radon in water, uranium, and other priority parameters.
NHDES maintains resources for well owners, including information on certified labs and recommended testing panels. Their BeWell Informed program is a valuable starting point.
Radon in water testing requires specific handling. Not all labs offer this test-confirm your chosen provider can test for radon in water if this is a concern for your area.
For real estate transactions, ensure your testing is comprehensive enough to satisfy buyer expectations. New Hampshire buyers familiar with bedrock concerns often expect arsenic, radon, and uranium testing as part of due diligence.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in New Hampshire, from bedrock contaminants to state recommendations.