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.
New Mexico's arid landscape and unique geology create specific groundwater conditions for private well owners. From the Rio Grande valley to the high desert and mountain regions, water quality varies significantly based on local geology and depth.
New Mexico 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 New Mexico Environment Department and local health offices.
Naturally occurring arsenic and uranium are significant concerns in New Mexico groundwater. The state's geology-including volcanic formations and mineral deposits-can result in these contaminants at levels exceeding safe drinking water standards. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well water.
New Mexico 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 may be required depending on your county and the permitting authority. Check with your local Office of the State Engineer or county for specific requirements when drilling a new well.
State and local health agencies recommend testing as a matter of good practice. Given New Mexico's significant arsenic and uranium concerns, following these recommendations is particularly important.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence. Given known contaminant concerns, testing before purchase is prudent.
Arsenic is a priority concern across much of New Mexico. It occurs naturally in groundwater due to the state's volcanic and mineral geology. Arsenic is odorless and tasteless, so testing is the only way to detect it. Many areas of New Mexico have arsenic levels exceeding EPA standards.
Uranium is another naturally occurring contaminant in New Mexico groundwater, particularly in certain geological formations. Testing for uranium is recommended, especially if you're in an area with known occurrences.
The baseline bacteria and nitrate testing applies in New Mexico as everywhere. Annual testing for total coliform, E. coli, and nitrates is recommended for all private well owners.
New Mexico's high mineral content is common-hardness, total dissolved solids, and fluoride may be elevated. These may not be health hazards but affect water taste and usability. Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), radon (some areas), and any contaminants identified as local concerns.
Every year
At minimum once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in New Mexico depend on what you're testing for. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are affordable. Adding arsenic and uranium (strongly recommended) increases the cost but is important given New Mexico's geology.
The New Mexico Environment Department and local health offices can provide information on testing options. The Scientific Laboratory Division may offer some testing services. Certified private labs also serve New Mexico well owners.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive), chemical tests within 5-10 business days. New Mexico's size and rural character mean planning for sample transport is important.
For real estate transactions, plan ahead. Allow adequate time for sample collection, transport, analysis, and any follow-up if issues are discovered.
New Mexico well owners can choose from certified laboratories, state lab services, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use labs certified for drinking water analysis.
Given New Mexico's significant arsenic and uranium concerns, make sure your chosen provider can test for these at appropriate detection limits. Not all basic panels include these parameters-confirm what's covered.
Local health offices can provide guidance on testing options and may have information on contaminants of concern in your specific area. The New Mexico Environment Department provides resources for well owners.
Distance and logistics matter in New Mexico. For bacteria samples that need to reach a lab within 24-30 hours, plan accordingly. Some rural areas may have limited local options.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in New Mexico, from arsenic concerns to finding local services.