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.
Virginia has significant private well usage, particularly in rural areas across the state. The geology varies from the Appalachian Mountains and Blue Ridge in the west to the Piedmont and Coastal Plain in the east, creating different groundwater conditions.
Virginia does not have a statewide mandate requiring private well water testing at property sale for all transactions. The state takes a recommendation-based approach, with guidance from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and local health departments.
Known contaminants of concern vary by region. Some areas have naturally occurring radon, arsenic, or uranium. Testing is essential to know what's in your specific well.
Virginia does not have a statewide law requiring private well water testing for all property sales. Testing is recommended but generally voluntary for existing private domestic wells.
For new well construction, testing is required. Virginia requires testing for bacteria before a new well can be approved for use. Local health departments administer these requirements.
VDH 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.
Real estate transactions often include testing. Mortgage lenders frequently require water quality documentation. Many buyers request testing during due diligence.
VDH recommends annual testing for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) and nitrates as a minimum. These baseline parameters apply to all Virginia well owners.
Regional concerns vary across Virginia. Some Blue Ridge and Piedmont areas have bedrock formations containing arsenic, uranium, or radon. In these areas, additional testing is recommended.
Agricultural areas in the Shenandoah Valley and elsewhere may have elevated nitrate levels due to farming activities. Coastal Plain wells may have different water quality characteristics.
Consider testing for: lead (especially with older plumbing), radon in water (some areas), arsenic (some bedrock areas), 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 Virginia 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.
Local health departments across Virginia may provide or facilitate well water testing. The Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) offers testing. Private certified labs also serve Virginia 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.
For new well construction, coordinate with your local health department for required testing. For real estate transactions, plan ahead to allow adequate time.
Virginia well owners can choose from certified laboratories, local health department programs, state lab services (DCLS), and mail-in test kit providers. For accurate, defensible results, use certified labs.
Local health departments are valuable resources. They may offer testing, maintain lists of certified labs, and understand local groundwater conditions specific to your part of Virginia.
Given regional variation across Virginia, local knowledge matters. The Blue Ridge has different considerations than the Coastal Plain. Your health department can advise on concerns for your area.
VDH provides resources for private well owners. Using certified labs ensures your results are reliable.
Quick answers to common questions about testing well water in Virginia, from requirements to regional concerns.