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Texas has extensive private well usage given its vast size and rural character. The state's geology varies dramatically-from the Gulf Coast to the Hill Country to the High Plains and Trans-Pecos-creating very different groundwater conditions across regions.
Texas 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 Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and local resources.
Known contaminants of concern vary by region. Arsenic occurs naturally in some areas. Nitrates can be elevated in agricultural regions. Some aquifers have high mineral content. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well.
Texas 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 requirements vary. Texas groundwater conservation districts may have rules in their areas. Check with your local groundwater district or county for specific requirements when drilling a new well.
TCEQ recommends regular testing for all private well owners. Annual testing for bacteria and nitrates is recommended as a baseline.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence.
The baseline testing recommended everywhere applies in Texas: total coliform bacteria and E. coli for sanitary integrity, plus nitrates which pose health risks to infants and pregnant women. Annual testing for these parameters is recommended.
Arsenic occurs naturally in some Texas groundwater, particularly in parts of West Texas and the Panhandle. It's odorless and tasteless, so testing is the only way to detect it.
Some Texas aquifers have high mineral content-hardness, fluoride, sulfate, and total dissolved solids may be elevated. While not always health hazards, these affect water taste and usability. High fluoride can be a concern.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), arsenic (some regions), fluoride, and any contaminants identified as concerns for your specific aquifer or region.
Every year
At least once, repeat every 3-5 years
Based on location and circumstances
Well water testing costs in Texas 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 specialty tests increases the cost.
Texas has many certified laboratories serving well owners across the state. Some county extension offices or health departments may provide testing resources. The Texas Well Owner Network (TWON) through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides educational resources.
Turnaround time follows typical patterns: bacteria results within a few days (samples are time-sensitive), chemical tests within 5-10 business days. Texas's size means planning for sample transport is important in rural areas.
For real estate transactions, plan ahead. Allow adequate time for sample collection, transport, analysis, and any follow-up if issues are discovered.
Texas well owners can choose from certified laboratories, extension programs, and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use labs certified for drinking water analysis.
The Texas Well Owner Network (TWON) through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides educational resources and may offer testing programs or clinics in some areas.
Given Texas's vast size and varied geology, regional knowledge matters. The Edwards Aquifer has different considerations than the Ogallala Aquifer or Gulf Coast aquifers. Local resources can advise on concerns for your specific area.
TCEQ provides information about water quality. Using certified labs ensures your results are reliable.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Texas, from requirements to regional concerns.