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North Carolina has one of the highest percentages of households relying on private wells in the nation. From the mountains to the Piedmont to the coastal plain, the state's diverse geology creates varied groundwater conditions that well owners should understand.
North Carolina requires testing for new wells but doesn't mandate testing at property sale for existing wells under state law. The state takes groundwater quality seriously, with resources available through local health departments and the Division of Public Health.
Known contaminants of concern vary by region. The Piedmont has areas with naturally occurring arsenic and radon. Some areas have experienced GenX/PFAS contamination. Agricultural areas may have nitrate concerns. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well.
North Carolina requires water quality testing for newly constructed private wells. Before a well can be approved for use, it must be tested for bacteria and, in some areas, other parameters. This testing is facilitated through county health departments.
For existing wells, there's no statewide mandate requiring testing at property sale. Testing is recommended but voluntary for routine ownership. However, many transactions include testing due to lender requirements or buyer requests.
Local health departments play a central role in North Carolina's private well program. They issue permits for well construction, oversee required testing for new wells, and provide resources for ongoing water quality monitoring.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders-particularly for government-backed loans-frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence. Having test results facilitates smoother transactions.
The baseline testing recommended everywhere applies in North Carolina: total coliform bacteria and E. coli for sanitary integrity, plus nitrates which pose health risks to infants. Annual testing for these parameters is recommended for all well owners.
North Carolina has region-specific concerns. The Piedmont region has areas with naturally occurring arsenic in groundwater. Some crystalline bedrock areas also have radon in water. The NC Division of Public Health can provide information on known contaminant areas.
GenX and other PFAS compounds have affected some North Carolina communities, particularly in the Cape Fear region. If you're in an area with known PFAS contamination, testing is appropriate.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), arsenic (Piedmont especially), iron and manganese (common aesthetic issues), and any contaminants your county health department identifies as local concerns.
Every year
At least once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in North Carolina depend on what you're testing for and which provider you use. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding arsenic, comprehensive panels, or PFAS testing increases the cost.
County health departments across North Carolina provide well water testing services for many parameters. Fees vary by county. The state laboratory and private certified labs also serve North Carolina well owners.
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 within 5-10 business days. PFAS testing may take longer.
For new well construction, testing is coordinated through your county health department as part of the permitting process. For real estate transactions, plan ahead to allow adequate time.
North Carolina well owners can choose from certified laboratories, county health department services, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use labs certified for drinking water analysis in North Carolina.
County health departments are often a good starting point. They offer testing for many parameters, understand local conditions, and can advise on contaminants of concern in your specific area.
Given regional variation across North Carolina, local knowledge matters. Piedmont wells may need arsenic testing while coastal plain wells have different considerations. Your county health department can provide guidance appropriate to your location.
For new well construction, work with your county health department to ensure you meet all required testing. For existing wells and real estate transactions, confirm the testing you're doing will satisfy any lender requirements.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in North Carolina, from new well requirements to regional concerns.