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New Jersey has significant private well usage, particularly in suburban and rural areas outside the densely populated urban corridors. The state's varied geology-from the Highlands to the Coastal Plain-creates different water quality conditions across regions.
New Jersey has one of the more comprehensive private well testing frameworks in the nation through the Private Well Testing Act (PWTA). This law requires testing in certain circumstances, most notably during real estate transactions involving properties with private wells.
Known contaminants of concern in New Jersey include arsenic, PFAS, radon, and various industrial compounds in some areas. The state's industrial history and diverse geology mean understanding your specific water quality through testing is essential.
New Jersey's Private Well Testing Act (PWTA) requires water testing when property with a private well is sold or leased. This is one of the more comprehensive requirements in the nation. The seller must provide test results to the buyer before closing.
PWTA requires testing for a specific list of parameters including bacteria, nitrates, lead, volatile organic compounds, and other contaminants. The specific panel is defined by state regulation. Testing must be performed by a state-certified laboratory.
Beyond PWTA requirements at sale, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection recommends annual testing for bacteria and nitrates for all private well owners. Additional testing may be appropriate based on your location and any known contamination issues in your area.
Some municipalities and counties may have additional requirements. Local health departments can provide guidance on any local rules that apply beyond state requirements.
The PWTA panel covers many important parameters: bacteria (total coliform and fecal coliform), nitrates, lead, mercury, and various organic compounds. This panel is required at property sale and provides good baseline information.
Beyond PWTA parameters, New Jersey has specific concerns. Arsenic occurs naturally in some areas, particularly in the Highlands and certain Piedmont regions. PFAS contamination has affected some New Jersey communities.
Radon in water can be a concern in areas with certain bedrock geology, particularly in the northern part of the state. When water is used, radon is released into indoor air.
Consider testing for: arsenic (if not included in your panel and you're in an affected area), radon in water (northern NJ especially), PFAS (if near known sources), and any contaminants your local health department identifies as concerns for your specific area.
Required at property sale
Every year
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in New Jersey vary based on what you're testing for. The PWTA-required panel for real estate transactions is comprehensive and costs more than basic bacteria/nitrate testing. Adding arsenic, radon, or PFAS increases the cost further.
New Jersey has many certified laboratories that can perform PWTA testing and other well water analysis. Local health departments may also provide testing services or referrals. NJDEP maintains lists of certified labs.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days, chemical tests within 5-10 business days. For real estate transactions, plan ahead-PWTA testing can take time, and results must be provided before closing.
For PWTA compliance, ensure you use a New Jersey-certified laboratory. Results from non-certified labs may not satisfy PWTA requirements.
For PWTA compliance, you must use a New Jersey-certified laboratory. NJDEP maintains a list of certified labs. Confirm certification before testing if your results need to satisfy PWTA requirements.
Local health departments can be valuable resources. They may offer testing services, provide referrals to certified labs, and can explain any local requirements beyond state law.
Given New Jersey's varied contaminant concerns-arsenic in some areas, PFAS in others, radon in the north-make sure your chosen provider can test for parameters relevant to your location beyond the basic PWTA panel.
For real estate transactions, timing matters. Coordinate with your realtor or attorney to ensure PWTA testing is completed with adequate time before closing.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in New Jersey, from PWTA requirements to finding certified labs.