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Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of private wells in the nation, with over a million households relying on them for drinking water. From the Appalachian Plateau to the Piedmont, the state's varied geology creates diverse groundwater conditions.
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local health agencies.
Known contaminants of concern include arsenic, radon in water, and in some areas, concerns related to Marcellus Shale development. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well water.
Pennsylvania does not have a statewide law requiring private well water testing for property sales. Testing is recommended but voluntary for existing private domestic wells under state law.
For new well construction, testing is required before the well can be used for drinking water. This testing must be done by a state-accredited laboratory and typically includes bacteria and other parameters.
Pennsylvania DEP strongly recommends annual testing for all private well owners. The baseline recommendation is annual testing for bacteria and nitrates, with periodic testing for other parameters.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence. Having test results facilitates smoother transactions.
PA DEP recommends annual testing for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) and nitrates as a minimum. These baseline parameters apply to all Pennsylvania well owners.
Arsenic occurs naturally in some Pennsylvania groundwater, particularly in certain geological formations. It's odorless and tasteless, so testing is the only way to detect it. DEP recommends testing for arsenic.
Radon in water is a concern in Pennsylvania. When water with radon is used, radon is released into indoor air. DEP recommends testing for radon in water, particularly in areas with elevated radon risk.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing or in areas with lead service lines), pH and corrosivity, iron and manganese, and any contaminants identified as concerns in your specific area.
Every year
At least once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in Pennsylvania depend on what you're testing for and which provider you use. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding arsenic, radon, comprehensive panels, or specialty tests increases the cost.
State-accredited laboratories are required for new well construction testing. For ongoing testing, you can use accredited labs or other certified providers. DEP maintains lists of accredited labs.
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. Radon testing may take longer.
For new well construction, coordinate with your driller and county to understand testing requirements. For real estate transactions, plan ahead to allow adequate time.
Pennsylvania well owners can choose from state-accredited laboratories, private certified labs, and mail-in test kit providers. For new well construction or defensible results, use DEP-accredited labs.
DEP provides resources for well owners and maintains lists of accredited laboratories. Many county health departments also offer testing or referrals.
Given Pennsylvania's varied geology-different considerations in the Poconos versus central PA versus the southeast-local knowledge can be valuable. DEP and county resources can advise on contaminants of concern for your area.
If you're near Marcellus Shale drilling activity and have concerns, consider baseline testing to establish pre-existing conditions. DEP has resources specific to this situation.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Pennsylvania, from new well requirements to regional concerns.