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South Carolina has significant private well usage, particularly in rural areas. The state's geology varies from the Blue Ridge mountains in the northwest to the Piedmont and the Coastal Plain, creating different groundwater conditions across regions.
South Carolina 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 South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and local health departments.
Known contaminants of concern vary by region. The Piedmont has areas with naturally occurring radon and other bedrock-related contaminants. Agricultural areas may have nitrate concerns. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well.
South Carolina 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 as part of the permitting process. Requirements are administered through DHEC and local health departments. Check for specific requirements when drilling a new well.
DHEC recommends regular testing for all private well owners. Annual testing for bacteria and nitrates is recommended as a baseline, with additional testing based on your location and circumstances.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence.
DHEC recommends annual testing for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) and nitrates as a minimum. These baseline parameters apply to all South Carolina well owners.
Regional concerns vary across South Carolina. The Piedmont region has bedrock formations that may contain radon and other naturally occurring contaminants. Coastal Plain wells have different considerations.
Agricultural areas may have elevated nitrate levels due to fertilizer and livestock operations. If you're in a farming area, nitrate testing is particularly important.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), pH (which affects corrosivity), iron and manganese (common aesthetic issues), and any contaminants your local health department identifies.
Every year
At least once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in South Carolina depend on what you're testing for and which provider you use. Basic bacteria and nitrate tests are generally affordable. Adding comprehensive panels or specialty tests increases the cost.
DHEC and local health departments may provide or facilitate well water testing. Private certified labs also serve South Carolina well owners. Check with your local health department for testing options.
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.
For real estate transactions, plan ahead. Allow adequate time for sample collection, analysis, and any follow-up if issues are discovered.
South Carolina well owners can choose from certified laboratories, DHEC services, local health department programs, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use certified labs.
Local health departments can be valuable resources. They may offer testing, maintain lists of certified labs, and can explain any local requirements. They understand local groundwater conditions.
Given regional variation across South Carolina-Piedmont versus Coastal Plain-local knowledge matters. Your health department can advise on contaminants of concern for your area.
DHEC provides resources for private well owners. Using certified labs ensures your results are reliable and meet any requirements.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in South Carolina, from requirements to regional concerns.