Is A Water Test Needed In A Home Inspection?

Is A Water Test Needed In A Home Inspection?

As home inspectors, we are often asked if the water in a particular city is “good” or not. That is a tough question to answer as there are many variables to that answer. Does the home use a private well to supply their main water or is it connected to the city provided system? If they do have a well, how old is it? Are there any types of private treatment systems installed?

Testing the water quality is not a part of a standard home inspection, but is offered as an additional service if desired. The state of Minnesota does not require well water to be tested during a home sale, but certain counties or municipalities may. Be sure to check your specific location for requirements. Here are some things to consider if you are wanting to have your water tested during your home inspection period.

History

The first thing that should be considered is when was the last time the water was tested? If the water was tested in the last 2-3 years a test may not be needed. Secondly, has the well been replaced or moved to a new location recently? If this is the case potential contamination may have happened and testing should be considered. Thirdly, has the home been sitting vacant for an extended period of time?  Over time stagnant water can build up contaminants that could be harmful. Lastly, did you see any potential damage to the well head or the inside components? The state of Minnesota does require the homeowner to disclose any and all known history of the well that is on the property, including previous testing and onsite treatment equipment. 

Well Water

The majority of water testing we perform is homes that have a private well. The reason for this is because private wells draw the water straight from the ground and may have been contaminated by the surrounding area. The only way to know what may be in your water is to test it. When we know that a home is on a private well and a water analysis is requested, we test for the following contaminants:

• Coliform Bacteria
• E. Coli Bacteria
• Nitrate
• Nitrite
• Lead

We do also offer additional testing options including, arsenic, iron, manganese, hardness, and copper. 

City Water

In light of issues found around our country with city supplied water, city water testing has become requested more and more. To help determine if the city supplied water should be tested, here are some things to consider. 

Are there known issues within the area? Known water supply issues are available through the state or county. Be sure to check the respective websites for information. Does the water have a smell? This could indicate potential contaminate build up within the water supply. Does the home have a private water treatment system installed? Inquire with the homeowners as to why this system was installed. Does the main water supply from the city have a lead swept joint or line? How old is the home? Older homes may have lead water supply lines or a joint or two that contain lead. Over time lead can build up and potentially cause health issues. What type of water supply lines are being used throughout the home? Older homes may also use lead or galvanized lines which could allow potential contaminates to accumulate in the system. 

We can test for most contaminants that may be found in city supplied water except Nitrate and Nitrite.

Test Results

Once you have decided to have the water tested and the results are back, what do you do now? If there are elevated levels of contaminants, the water can be treated. Depending on the contaminant and level, treatment options could range from a “shock” treatment to a permanently mounted treatment system within the home. It is recommended to contact a qualified and licensed water treatment professional for solutions. 

Final Thoughts

Determining whether or not you should have your water tested can be hard, but if you have concerns, the only way to know is to have it tested. More information is generally better when making a decision to purchase a home. If the water does have contaminants, thankfully there are ways to treat it and you can be assured that the water to your home is safe to use. We have a saying, “When in doubt, check it out.” We would love to help you in your home buying journey and testing your water is just one small part of that. 

If you would like to schedule a water test or any other inspection, click the link Marigoldhomeinsepctions.com