This material is based upon work supported in part by theCooperative State Research, Education, and ExtensionService, U.S. Department of Agriculture,under Agreement No.00-51130-9775. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, orrecommendations expressed in this publication are those ofthe author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of theU.S. Department of Agriculture.

Funded in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency

t printed on 100% recycled paper, using vegetable based inks

February 2005

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PrPrPrPrPrivivivivivatatatatate Dre Dre Dre Dre DrinkinginkinginkinginkinginkingWWWWWatatatatater Wer Wer Wer Wer Wellsellsellsellsells

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The University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension WaterQuality Program has an extensive private well web page withfact sheets and a program calendar offering private well educa-tion workshops. See www.uri.edu/ce/wq and click on the RhodeIsland Home*A*Syst Program link.

VermontVermontVermontVermontVermontFor technical assistance and other information including healthconcerns, testing recommendations for private well owners, factsheets, and diagrams on proper installation of wells, andinformation about home water treatment, contact the VermontDepartment of Health at (802) 863-7220 or (800) 439-8550(from within Vermont).www.healthyvermonters.org/hp/waterquality/safewater.shtml

For more information about laboratory testing services;water testing; or to order test kits, contact the Vermont PublicHealth Laboratory at (802) 863-7335 or, from within Vermont,(800) 660-9997.

For information on Vermont Licensed Well Drillers, contact theVermont Department of Environmental Conservation, WaterSupply Division at (802) 241-3400 or (800) 823-6500 (fromwithin Vermont)www.vermontdrinkingwater.org/wells.htm

Water Systems CouncilWater Systems Council is a national organization solely focusedon individual wells and other well-based water systems not regu-lated under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act.The Counciloffers educational materials and trainings.Wellcare Hotline: (888) 395-1033www.watersystemscouncil.org/about/index.cfm

American Ground Water TrustThis national not-for-profit educational organization focuses ongroundwater resource protection.The Trust conducts trainingprograms and develops educational materials on groundwaterresource protection including private drinking water wellprotection and maintenance.American Ground Water Trust: (603) 228-5444www.agwt.org or www.privatewell.com

f you are a real estate agent representing the buyer or the seller, you may have a question about how you can best inform your client about private well water issues during a

property transaction. This brochure will help to answer your questions.

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA), it is estimated that approximately 2.3 million people, or 20% of New Englanders, rely on private wells for their drinking water supply.This percentage increases to more than 40% for Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Contaminants, if present in drinking water at elevated levels, can pose a risk to families. Many of the contaminants that can be present in a private well are odorless, tasteless,and colorless. The only way to identify their presence is to have the well water tested.

KnowledgeKnowledgeKnowledgeKnowledgeKnowledgeis Power!is Power!is Power!is Power!is Power!Advise your client to get the most information possible from qualified professionals about both the well water quality and the condition and functioning of the entire drinking water sys-tem. For testing recommenda-tions and information about qualified professionals, it is best to contact the appropriate state agency,listed in the For More Information section at the end of this brochure.

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NNNNNeeeeew Hamw Hamw Hamw Hamw HampshirpshirpshirpshirpshireeeeeThe New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services hasextensive information on its website at: www.des.state.nh.us/wseb

• For information concerning laboratory testing of water samples,please call an independent certified laboratory in NH or the statelaboratory at 603-271-3445. For information concerning waterquality, treatment, and questions concerning the public drinkingwater program, please call 603-271-2513.

• For information on wells, water quantity, and licensed welldrillers, please call 603-271-2513.

• For health related information, please call 603-271-4608.

• For water quality test requirements for new housing, contactyour local community’s code enforcement program.

Some NH communities have local testing requirements. Contact yourlocal town hall to learn about any local testing requirements in yourcommunity.

Rhode IslandRhode IslandRhode IslandRhode IslandRhode IslandRhode Island Department of HealthRegulations for private drinking water well testing at time ofreal estate sale and information on testing and state certifiedlaboratories. (401) 222-6867.www.health.ri.gov/environment/dwq/privatewell.htm

RI Department of Environmental ManagementTo obtain a listing of registered well drillers and pump installers,regulations pertaining to private drinking water well construc-tion and abandonment, call (401) 222-4700 or visit the website.www.state.ri.us/dem/programs/benviron/water/permits/privwell/index.htm

ShorShorShorShorShor t -t -t -t -t -TTTTTererererermmmmmIf the property's private well has taste and odor problems, the prospective buyer may hesitate to make an offer on the property.

Encourage your seller to have the well tested for bacteria and other problematic contaminants and install water treatment if needed.

Long-Long-Long-Long-Long-TTTTTererererermmmmmTo protect their health,private well owners should periodically test their well water to ensure the quality of their drinking water.

It is best to have the well water tested annually for at least bacteria, nitrate and nitrite. Other contami-nants, like arsenic, should be tested for on a less frequent or as needed basis.

Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Testing and inspection prior to listing a property will help avoid delays in selling the home. Ev en though the potential buyer's lending institution will most likely require testing and inspec-tion, an inspection commissioned by the home-seller will help identify any existing problems that should be remedied prior to listing. This will help to make the home more marketable and reduce the risk of problems during the sale. If necessary, correct any identified problems. (Note: To ensure public health protection in the long-term, state drinking water agencies recommend that homeowners arrange to have their private wells tested annually.)

Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!If there are any objections to testing and inspecting the water system, you can advise your client that a house with a system in disrepair or with contaminants present in the water is worth less money on the market and can take longer to sell. Just like a home with a new roof will likely sell for more, a home with a properly functioning water system that provides safe drinking water is worth more and will be a place of comfort for the new owners.

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MaineMaineMaineMaineMaineFor a list of state certified labs, contact the Drinking WaterProgram in the Division of Health Engineering, Department ofHuman Services (207) 287-1929.

The Environmental Toxicology Program in the Department ofHuman Services maintains health based Maximum ExposureGuidelines (MEGs) for owners of private wells. The toll freenumber is (866) 292-3474.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Water QualityProgram has information on private well water protection andtesting on their web page. www.umaine.edu/waterquality/

MassachusettsMassachusettsMassachusettsMassachusettsMassachusettsLocal Boards of Health can adopt regulations requiring a permitfor private drinking water well construction, testing, and abandon-ment. Contact your local Board of Health for more information.

For more information about types of wells, maintaining wells,water quality issues and testing well water, visit the UMassExtension website.www.umass.edu/nrec/watershed_water_quality/index.html

For information on state certified laboratories in Massachusetts,see the Drinking Water Program at the MassachusettsDepartment of Environmental Protection website.www.state.ma.us/dep/bspt/wes/files/qalabjp.htm#findlab

What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?While this recommendation may vary from state to state, the EPA suggests that an initial test should include coliform bacteria, nitrates/nitrites, and pH. In addition, the homeowner should consult with experts about the need to test for arsenic, lead, copper, radon, a gross alpha screen, and volatile organic compounds. For more information on specific testing suggestions in your state, contact the appropriate state agency.

The buyer's lending institution will most likely require that the well pass a water quality test prior to loan approval. Most lenders require testing for bacteria, nitrate and lead at a minimum. Keep in mind that these tests are intended to ensure that the lender is not making a loan on a property with a faulty system, in case they have to repossess the property. The testing is not necessarily required to protect the health of the residents.

WherWherWherWherWhere should te should te should te should te should the samhe samhe samhe samhe samples be tples be tples be tples be tples be takakakakaken?en?en?en?en?The water sample should be collected from the cold water kitchen tap. Most water testing laboratories supply their own sample containers and provide detailed instructions on how to properly collect a water sample. Use the bottles provided and carefully follow all instructions to obtain a good sample. In some cases, a laboratory professional may come to the home and collect the sample. 3

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UUUUU.S. EP.S. EP.S. EP.S. EP.S. EPA NA NA NA NA Neeeeew Engw Engw Engw Engw EnglandlandlandlandlandEPA’s New England Office has a new campaign to get the wordout to homeowners about the importance of taking precautionsto protect, maintain, and test their private well. Through avariety of efforts, the campaign will reach the general public, thereal estate community, schools, local officials, and trade associa-tions like well drillers.www.epa.gov/ne/eco/drinkwater/private_well_owners.html

NNNNNeeeeew Engw Engw Engw Engw England Rland Rland Rland Rland Region Wegion Wegion Wegion Wegion Watatatatater Quality Prer Quality Prer Quality Prer Quality Prer Quality ProgogogogogrrrrramamamamamFor information and education programs on private well waterprotection.www.usawaterquality.org/newengland

ConnecticutConnecticutConnecticutConnecticutConnecticutConnecticut Department of Public HealthConnecticut's private well water quality regulations arecontained in Public Health Code Section 19-13-B101.Well construction regulations are contained in PHC Section19-13-B51a-m. Private well regulations are under the jurisdic-tion of Connecticut's local health departments.They should becontacted with any private well questions.Additional informa-tion may also be obtained by contacting the Department ofPublic Health's (DPH) Drinking Water Division (DWD) at(860) 509-7333 or by accessing the DWD's website.www.dph.state.ct.us/BRS/Water/DWD.htm

If there is a home water treatment system, a water test should be done on both the raw water coming into the house before the treatment system and a separate test after the water has passed through the treatment system. This will identify the contaminants that are present and ensure that the treatment system is functioning properly.

ArArArArAre te te te te therherherherhere ane ane ane ane any specify specify specify specify specific sic sic sic sic stttttatatatatateeeeetttttesesesesesting rting rting rting rting reqeqeqeqequiruiruiruiruirements?ements?ements?ements?ements?State requirements for private well testing at the time of property sale vary from state to state. It is best to check with the state drinking water agency for requirements. In addition, your client can ask the appropriate state agency about any known contamination problems in the area to assist in determining what contaminants to test for.

WherWherWherWherWhere should te should te should te should te should the whe whe whe whe watatatatater be ter be ter be ter be ter be tesesesesesttttted?ed?ed?ed?ed?Your client should arrange to have the water tested at a state certified lab. These labs follow accepted procedures for testing contaminants. Make sure that the lab is certified to test for the contaminants requested.The lab will provide sampling instructions and collection bottles for taking the water sample, or in some cases,ma y send a professional to the home to collect the samples. Contact the appropriate state agency for a listing of certified labs.

What else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutwater testing?water testing?water testing?water testing?water testing?Prior to obtaining a water sample for testing, advise your client to confirm that the well has no chlorine in it. The well may have

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However, a well producing less than 5 gallons per minute is stillconsidered low yielding and may not be able to keep up withtoo many demands being placed on it at the same time.Water-use chores may need to be spread out over the week to limitdemand.

How does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifttttthe whe whe whe whe well is prell is prell is prell is prell is properoperoperoperoperllllly locaty locaty locaty locaty located aed aed aed aed awwwwwaaaaayyyyyfrfrfrfrfrom poom poom poom poom potttttential contential contential contential contential contaminant souraminant souraminant souraminant souraminant sources?ces?ces?ces?ces?The potential for contaminants entering a well depends uponits placement and construction, as well as the proximity of thewell to potential pollution sources, the condition of the wellcasing and well cap, and general construction. States haveminimum setback distances for wells from potential contami-nant sources. Examples include setback distances from septictanks, leach fields, agricultural operations, and roads. Older wells,constructed prior to the adoption of these setback require-ments, may not meet these criteria. States also issue wellconstruction regulations or guidelines that ensure a safe watersupply.Your client can contact the state drinking water agencyfor specifics. Encourage your client to find out more aboutprivate well ownership and use. A guide entitled, DrinkingWater from Household Wells is available from the EPA to helpanswer questions and provide links to additional information.The booklet can be viewed at www.epa.gov/safewater/pwells1.html or it can be ordered by calling the Safe DrinkingWater Hotline at: (800) 426-4791.

been chlorinated because of a failing bacteria or other test. Chlorine would mask the presence of bacteria and other contaminants that may be present in the well water. A pool chemical test kit can confirm whether chlorine is present. If chlorine is present, delay the water test. Remove chlorine from the well and plumbing by running the water at each faucet until no chlorine odor is detected.Wait at least 24 hours after no chlorine odor is detected before re-testing for the presence of chlorine and collecting a water sample. Using the pool chemi-cal test kit prior to sample collection will ensure the continuity of checking for chlorine each time a sample is collected.

What arWhat arWhat arWhat arWhat are te te te te the coshe coshe coshe coshe costs fts fts fts fts for tor tor tor tor tesesesesesting?ting?ting?ting?ting?What to test for and how much the test will cost will vary by state and lab. Testing can range from as little as $5 for an individual test parameter (like pH) to $250 or more for a com-bination of tests covering a wide spectrum of parameters. See the state drinking water agency contacts for more information.

Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,how does my client know thehow does my client know thehow does my client know thehow does my client know thehow does my client know thewater is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?The EPA establishes limits on the concentrations of certain contaminants that would pose a public health threat if present in elevated levels in public drinking water supplies.These limits, or standards, are set to protect public health by ensuring good quality water. Private w ell owners are generally not required to test their drinking water to meet standards, unless the state has regulations for private well testing. However, lending compa-nies may use some of these standards for loan approval. Private well owners and potential buyers can use the public drinking

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WherWherWherWherWhere does ye does ye does ye does ye does your client gour client gour client gour client gour client geeeeetttttinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privatewell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andtttttesesesesesting and maintting and maintting and maintting and maintting and maintenance renance renance renance renance recorecorecorecorecords?ds?ds?ds?ds?The current homeowner may have testing and maintenancerecords, and well construction information (also known as awell log, a water well record, or a drilling report). Most statesrequire that a registered well driller file a well log with the statedrinking water agency or local town hall. However, dependingon the age of the well, this may not have been done. In somecases, your client may be able to contact the individual whoconstructed the well. If this information is unavailable, then yourclient will have to rely on the information produced by the wellinspector.

Determining the well type—whether dug, driven, or drilled—can often be done by a visual inspection of the well. For moreinformation on well types, see the University of Rhode Islandfactsheet Drinking Water Wells at:www.uri.edu/ce/wq/has/html/Drinking.pdf

How does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theprprprprprivivivivivatatatatate we we we we well will prell will prell will prell will prell will produce enough woduce enough woduce enough woduce enough woduce enough watatatataterererererfor household needs?for household needs?for household needs?for household needs?for household needs?The well log or drilling report may contain the information onthe well's capacity and yield in gallons per minute. If this infor-mation is not available, you can contact a registered well drillerto conduct a well yield test. This person will have the equip-ment and knowledge necessary to conduct the test.

Most states have private well construction regulations thatrequire a minimum well depth based on the yield of the well.For example, in Rhode Island, a well with a yield of one gallon ofwater per minute is required to have a minimum well depth of300 feet. A minimum well yield of one gallon per minute amountsto 1,440 gallons of water per day. By comparison, it is estimatedthat the average daily water use per person is 75 gallons; for afamily of four this amounts to 300 gallons of water per day.

water standards as guidelines when evaluating the quality of private drinking water. F or more information on drinking water quality standards, visit EPA's website: www.epa.gov/safewater State drinking water agencies may also set advisory levels for some contaminants, such as sodium, that are either stricter than the federal standards or that are not covered by the federal standards.

ArArArArAre te te te te therherherherhere ane ane ane ane any oy oy oy oy ottttther parher parher parher parher parts of tts of tts of tts of tts of the whe whe whe whe watatatatatererererersystem that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?Yes. In addition to a well water test, the mechanical workings of the water system should also be inspected.This includes the well pump, pressure tank, water treatment system (should one exist), the condition of the area around the well, and the well's proxim-ity to potential contamination sources.The well itself should be inspected to ensure tight construction. Also, the well’s location should not be subject to flooding. It is important to advise your client to rely on qualified professionals to conduct the inspection. Qualified home inspectors can inspect the plumbing system, such as general age, appearance and performance of the piping, storage tank and/or other water system appliances like water filters and treatment systems. For any inspection or work on the well, it is recommended to contract with a registered well driller or pump installer.

What arWhat arWhat arWhat arWhat are te te te te the coshe coshe coshe coshe costs fts fts fts fts for inspection?or inspection?or inspection?or inspection?or inspection?The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geo-graphically, as does the cost of housing.The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost. When selecting the home inspector, the inspector’s qualifications, including experi-ence, training, and professional affiliations, should be an impor-tant consideration.

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water standards as guidelines when evaluating the quality ofprivate drinking water. For more information on drinking waterquality standards, visit EPA's website: www.epa.gov/safewaterState drinking water agencies may also set advisory levels forsome contaminants, such as sodium, that are either stricter thanthe federal standards or that are not covered by the federalstandards.

ArArArArAre te te te te therherherherhere ane ane ane ane any oy oy oy oy ottttther parher parher parher parher parts of tts of tts of tts of tts of the whe whe whe whe watatatatatererererersystem that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?system that need to be inspected?Yes. In addition to a well water test, the mechanical workings ofthe water system should also be inspected.This includes the wellpump, pressure tank, water treatment system (should one exist),the condition of the area around the well, and the well's proxim-ity to potential contamination sources. The well itself should beinspected to ensure tight construction. Also, the well’s locationshould not be subject to flooding. It is important to advise yourclient to rely on qualified professionals to conduct theinspection. Qualified home inspectors can inspect the plumbingsystem, such as general age, appearance and performance of thepiping, storage tank and/or other water system appliances likewater filters and treatment systems. For any inspection or workon the well, it is recommended to contract with a registered welldriller or pump installer.

What arWhat arWhat arWhat arWhat are te te te te the coshe coshe coshe coshe costs fts fts fts fts for inspection?or inspection?or inspection?or inspection?or inspection?The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geo-graphically, as does the cost of housing.The knowledge gainedfrom an inspection is well worth the cost. When selecting thehome inspector, the inspector’s qualifications, including experi-ence, training, and professional affiliations, should be an impor-tant consideration.

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WherWherWherWherWhere does ye does ye does ye does ye does your client gour client gour client gour client gour client geeeeetttttinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privateinformation on the age of the privatewell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andwell, the type of well, its depth, andtttttesesesesesting and maintting and maintting and maintting and maintting and maintenance renance renance renance renance recorecorecorecorecords?ds?ds?ds?ds?The current homeowner may have testing and maintenance records, and well construction information (also known as a well log, a water well record, or a drilling report). Most states require that a registered well driller file a well log with the state drinking water agency or local town hall. However, depending on the age of the well, this may not have been done. In some cases, your client may be able to contact the individual who constructed the well. If this information is unavailable, then your client will have to rely on the information produced by the well inspector.

Determining the well type—whether dug, driven, or drilled— can often be done by a visual inspection of the well. For more information on well types, see the University of Rhode Island factsheet Drinking Water Wells at: www.uri.edu/ce/wq/has/html/Drinking.pdf

How does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theHow does your client determine if theprprprprprivivivivivatatatatate we we we we well will prell will prell will prell will prell will produce enough woduce enough woduce enough woduce enough woduce enough watatatataterererererfor household needs?for household needs?for household needs?for household needs?for household needs?The well log or drilling report may contain the information on the well's capacity and yield in gallons per minute. If this infor-mation is not available, you can contact a registered well driller to conduct a well yield test. This person will have the equip-ment and knowledge necessary to conduct the test.

Most states have private well construction regulations that require a minimum well depth based on the yield of the well. For example, in Rhode Island, a well with a yield of one gallon of water per minute is required to have a minimum well depth of 300 feet. A minimum well yield of one gallon per minute amounts to 1,440 gallons of water per day. By comparison, it is estimated that the average daily water use per person is 75 gallons; for a family of four this amounts to 300 gallons of water per day.

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been chlorinated because of a failing bacteria or other test.Chlorine would mask the presence of bacteria and othercontaminants that may be present in the well water. A poolchemical test kit can confirm whether chlorine is present. Ifchlorine is present, delay the water test. Remove chlorine fromthe well and plumbing by running the water at each faucet untilno chlorine odor is detected.Wait at least 24 hours after nochlorine odor is detected before re-testing for the presence ofchlorine and collecting a water sample. Using the pool chemi-cal test kit prior to sample collection will ensure the continuityof checking for chlorine each time a sample is collected.

What arWhat arWhat arWhat arWhat are te te te te the coshe coshe coshe coshe costs fts fts fts fts for tor tor tor tor tesesesesesting?ting?ting?ting?ting?What to test for and how much the test will cost will vary bystate and lab. Testing can range from as little as $5 for anindividual test parameter (like pH) to $250 or more for a com-bination of tests covering a wide spectrum of parameters. Seethe state drinking water agency contacts for more information.

Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,Once the testing is done,how does my client know thehow does my client know thehow does my client know thehow does my client know thehow does my client know thewater is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?water is safe to drink?The EPA establishes limits on the concentrations of certaincontaminants that would pose a public health threat if presentin elevated levels in public drinking water supplies.These limits,or standards, are set to protect public health by ensuring goodquality water. Private well owners are generally not required totest their drinking water to meet standards, unless the state hasregulations for private well testing. However, lending compa-nies may use some of these standards for loan approval. Privatewell owners and potential buyers can use the public drinking

However, a w ell producing less than 5 gallons per minute is still considered low yielding and may not be able to keep up with too many demands being placed on it at the same time.Water-use chores may need to be spread out over the week to limit demand.

How does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifHow does my client determine ifttttthe whe whe whe whe well is prell is prell is prell is prell is properoperoperoperoperllllly locaty locaty locaty locaty located aed aed aed aed awwwwwaaaaayyyyyfrfrfrfrfrom poom poom poom poom potttttential contential contential contential contential contaminant souraminant souraminant souraminant souraminant sources?ces?ces?ces?ces?The potential for contaminants entering a well depends upon its placement and construction, as well as the proximity of the well to potential pollution sources, the condition of the well casing and well cap, and general construction. States have minimum setback distances for wells from potential contami-nant sources. Examples include setback distances from septic tanks, leach fields, agricultural operations, and roads. Older wells, constructed prior to the adoption of these setback require-ments, may not meet these criteria. States also issue well construction regulations or guidelines that ensure a safe water supply.Your client can contact the state drinking water agency for specifics. Encourage your client to find out more about private well ownership and use. A guide entitled, Drinking Water from HouseholdWells is available from the EPA to help answer questions and provide links to additional information. The booklet can be viewed at www.epa.gov/safewater/ pwells1.html or it can be ordered by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at: (800) 426-4791.

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If there is a home water treatment system, a water test shouldbe done on both the raw water coming into the house beforethe treatment system and a separate test after the water haspassed through the treatment system. This will identify thecontaminants that are present and ensure that the treatmentsystem is functioning properly.

ArArArArAre te te te te therherherherhere ane ane ane ane any specify specify specify specify specific sic sic sic sic stttttatatatatateeeeetttttesesesesesting rting rting rting rting reqeqeqeqequiruiruiruiruirements?ements?ements?ements?ements?State requirements for private well testing at the time ofproperty sale vary from state to state. It is best to check with thestate drinking water agency for requirements. In addition, yourclient can ask the appropriate state agency about any knowncontamination problems in the area to assist in determiningwhat contaminants to test for.

WherWherWherWherWhere should te should te should te should te should the whe whe whe whe watatatatater be ter be ter be ter be ter be tesesesesesttttted?ed?ed?ed?ed?Your client should arrange to have the water tested at astate certified lab. These labs follow accepted procedures fortesting contaminants. Make sure that the lab is certified to testfor the contaminants requested.The lab will provide samplinginstructions and collection bottles for taking the water sample,or in some cases, may send a professional to the home to collectthe samples. Contact the appropriate state agency for a listingof certified labs.

What else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutWhat else should I know aboutwater testing?water testing?water testing?water testing?water testing?Prior to obtaining a water sample for testing, advise your clientto confirm that the well has no chlorine in it. The well may have

FFFFFor Moror Moror Moror Moror More Infe Infe Infe Infe Infororororormationmationmationmationmation

UUUUU.S. EP.S. EP.S. EP.S. EP.S. EPA NA NA NA NA Neeeeew Engw Engw Engw Engw EnglandlandlandlandlandEPA’s New England Office has a new campaign to get the word out to homeowners about the importance of taking precautions to protect, maintain, and test their private well. Through a variety of efforts, the campaign will reach the general public, the real estate community, schools, local officials, and trade associa-tions like well drillers. www.epa.gov/ne/eco/drinkwater/private_well_owners.html

NNNNNeeeeew Engw Engw Engw Engw England Rland Rland Rland Rland Region Wegion Wegion Wegion Wegion Watatatatater Quality Prer Quality Prer Quality Prer Quality Prer Quality ProgogogogogrrrrramamamamamFor information and education programs on private well water protection.www.usawaterquality.org/newengland

ConnecticutConnecticutConnecticutConnecticutConnecticutConnecticut Department of Public Health Connecticut's private well water quality regulations are contained in Public Health Code Section 19-13-B101. Well construction regulations are contained in PHC Section 19-13-B51a-m. Private well regulations are under the jurisdic-tion of Connecticut's local health departments.They should be contacted with any private well questions.Additional informa-tion may also be obtained by contacting the Department of Public Health's (DPH) Drinking Water Division (DWD) at (860) 509-7333 or by accessing the DWD's website. www.dph.state.ct.us/BRS/Water/DWD.htm

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What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?What tests should be conducted?While this recommendation may vary from state to state,the EPA suggests that an initial test should include coliformbacteria, nitrates/nitrites, and pH. In addition, the homeownershould consult with experts about the need to test for arsenic,lead, copper, radon, a gross alpha screen, and volatile organiccompounds. For more information on specific testingsuggestions in your state, contact the appropriate state agency.

The buyer's lending institution will most likely require thatthe well pass a water quality test prior to loan approval.Most lenders require testing forbacteria, nitrate and lead at aminimum. Keep in mind thatthese tests are intended toensure that the lender is notmaking a loan on a propertywith a faulty system, in case theyhave to repossess the property.The testing is not necessarilyrequired to protect the health ofthe residents.

WherWherWherWherWhere should te should te should te should te should the samhe samhe samhe samhe samples be tples be tples be tples be tples be takakakakaken?en?en?en?en?The water sample should be collected from the cold water kitchentap. Most water testing laboratories supply their own samplecontainers and provide detailed instructions on how toproperly collect a water sample. Use the bottles provided andcarefully follow all instructions to obtain a good sample. In somecases, a laboratory professional may come to the home andcollect the sample.10

MaineMaineMaineMaineMaineFor a list of state certified labs, contact the Drinking Water Program in the Division of Health Engineering, Department of Human Services (207) 287-1929.

The Environmental Toxicology Program in the Department of Human Services maintains health based Maximum Exposure Guidelines (MEGs) for owners of private wells. The toll free number is (866) 292-3474.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension Water Quality Program has information on private well water protection and testing on their web page. www.umaine.edu/waterquality/

MassachusettsMassachusettsMassachusettsMassachusettsMassachusettsLocal Boards of Health can adopt regulations requiring a permit for private drinking water well construction, testing, and abandon-ment. Contact your local Board of Health for more information.

For more information about types of wells, maintaining wells, water quality issues and testing well water, visit the UMass Extension website. www.umass.edu/nrec/watershed_water_quality/index.html

For information on state certified laboratories in Massachusetts, see the Drinking Water Program at the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection website. www.state.ma.us/dep/bspt/wes/files/qalabjp.htm#findlab

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If the property's private well has taste and odorproblems, the prospective buyer may hesitate tomake an offer on the property.

Encourage your seller to have the well tested forbacteria and other problematic contaminants andinstall water treatment if needed.

To protect their health, private well owners shouldperiodically test their well water to ensure thequality of their drinking water.

It is best to have the well water tested annually forat least bacteria, nitrate and nitrite. Other contami-nants, like arsenic, should be tested for on a lessfrequent or as needed basis.

Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Avoid Delays!Testing and inspection prior to listing a property will help avoiddelays in selling the home. Even though the potential buyer'slending institution will most likely require testing and inspec-tion, an inspection commissioned by the home-seller will helpidentify any existing problems that should be remedied priorto listing. This will help to make the home more marketableand reduce the risk of problems during the sale. If necessary,correct any identified problems. (Note: To ensure public healthprotection in the long-term, state drinking water agenciesrecommend that homeowners arrange to have their private wellstested annually.)

Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!Safe water can be a selling point!If there are any objections to testing and inspecting the watersystem, you can advise your client that a house with a systemin disrepair or with contaminants present in the water is worthless money on the market and can take longer to sell. Just likea home with a new roof will likely sell for more, a home with aproperly functioning water system that provides safe drinkingwater is worth more and will be a place of comfort for the newowners.

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NNNNNeeeeew Hamw Hamw Hamw Hamw HampshirpshirpshirpshirpshireeeeeThe New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has extensive information on its website at: www.des.state.nh.us/wseb

• For information concerning laboratory testing of water samples, please call an independent certified laboratory in NH or the state laboratory at 603-271-3445. For information concerning water quality, treatment, and questions concerning the public drinking water program, please call 603-271-2513.

• For information on wells, water quantity, and licensed well drillers, please call 603-271-2513.

• For health related information, please call 603-271-4608.

• For water quality test requirements for new housing, contact your local community’s code enforcement program.

Some NH communities have local testing requirements. Contact your local town hall to learn about any local testing requirements in your community.

Rhode IslandRhode IslandRhode IslandRhode IslandRhode IslandRhode Island Department of Health Regulations for private drinking water well testing at time of real estate sale and information on testing and state certified laboratories. (401) 222-6867. www.health.ri.gov/environment/dwq/privatewell.htm

RI Department of Environmental ManagementTo obtain a listing of registered well drillers and pump installers,regulations pertaining to private drinking water well construc-tion and abandonment, call (401) 222-4700 or visit the website.www.state.ri.us/dem/programs/benviron/water/permits/ privwell/index.htm

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f you are a real estate agent representing the buyer or theseller, you may have a question about how you can bestinform your client about private well water issues during a

property transaction. This brochure will help to answeryour questions.

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA),it is estimated that approximately 2.3 million people, or 20%of New Englanders, rely on private wells for their drinking watersupply.This percentage increases to more than 40% for Vermont,New Hampshire, and Maine. Contaminants, if present in drinkingwater at elevated levels, can pose a risk to families. Many of thecontaminants that can be present in a private well are odorless,tasteless, and colorless. The only way to identify their presence is tohave the well water tested.

KnowledgeKnowledgeKnowledgeKnowledgeKnowledgeis Power!is Power!is Power!is Power!is Power!Advise your client to get themost information possible fromqualified professionals aboutboth the well water quality andthe condition and functioningof the entire drinking water sys-tem. For testing recommenda-tions and information aboutqualified professionals, it is best to contact the appropriate stateagency, listed in the For More Information section at the end ofthis brochure.

The University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension Water Quality Program has an extensive private well web page with fact sheets and a program calendar offering private well educa-tion workshops.See www.uri.edu/ce/wq and click on the Rhode Island Home*A*Syst Program link.

VermontVermontVermontVermontVermontFor technical assistance and other information including health concerns, testing recommendations for private well owners, fact sheets, and diagrams on proper installation of wells, and information about home water treatment, contact theVermont Department of Health at (802) 863-7220 or (800) 439-8550 (from withinVermont). www.healthyvermonters.org/hp/waterquality/safewater.shtml

For more information about laboratory testing services; water testing; or to order test kits, contact theVermont Public Health Laboratory at (802) 863-7335 or, from withinVermont, (800) 660-9997.

For information onVermont LicensedWell Drillers,contact the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, Water Supply Division at (802) 241-3400 or (800) 823-6500 (from within Vermont) www.vermontdrinkingwater.org/wells.htm

Water Systems Council Water Systems Council is a national organization solely focused on individual wells and other well-based water systems not regu-lated under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act.The Council offers educational materials and trainings. Wellcare Hotline: (888) 395-1033 www.watersystemscouncil.org/about/index.cfm

American Ground WaterTrust This national not-for-profit educational organization focuses on groundwater resource protection.The Trust conducts training programs and develops educational materials on groundwater resource protection including private drinking water well protection and maintenance. American Ground Water Trust: (603) 228-5444 www.agwt.org or www.privatewell.com

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Funded in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency

t printed on 100% recycled paper, using vegetable based inks

February 2005

This material is based upon work supported in part by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture,under Agreement No. 00-51130-9775. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.