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Private Well Water Testing Program
To help residents with private wells determine the quality of their drinking water, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services operates an extensive water testing program.There are approximately 77,000 individual private wells serving over 200,000 people in Suffolk County.Due to the large number of requests that the county receives for water analyses, there is a charge for the service. To request a water analysis, review the document "Instructions for Requesting Private Well Water Analysis " and complete the form "Request for Well Water Analysis "
Drinking Water Quality
In the past, the news media has provided volumes of coverage to incidents of groundwater contamination.Some people may have gotten the impression that our entire water supply is contaminated.In fact, the media coverage of well contaminations is news because most residents have high quality drinking water and want it to stay that way.There are many laws and programs designed to help preserve and protect the region’s groundwater supply.
Although testing by the department has discovered many instances of severe well water contamination, not every private well has a problem.Our analyses show that the majority of wells tested in Suffolk meet drinking water standards that have been set for health-related reasons.Of course, natural waters sometimes contain constituents such as iron and manganese which can be objectionable aesthetically, but are not normally considered harmful to health.
The only way to determine the quality of a private well is to have the water tested.When a nearby well is found to be contaminated, it does not automatically mean that your well is similarly contaminated.The complexities of the hydrogeology of the area necessitate the sampling of each individual well to determine water quality.
If you would like your family physician informed of any problems with your water supply so that the information can be included in your medical records, please attach his (her) name and address to the request form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will my well water be tested for?
Your water will be tested for basic potability including those chemical parameters that have been found to frequently occur in past testing by the Department.Analyses usually performed include:microbiological quality, inorganic chemical content, volatile organic compounds andpetroleum derivatives.If you live in an agricultural area your water may also be tested for carbamate pesticides.
How often can my water be tested?
Due to the great number of private wells in the county and the extensive analysis performed, the department reserves the right to limit the frequency of which your well will be tested. You can however, have your water tested by a commercial laboratory at anytime. A listing of commercial laboratories approved by the New York State Department of Health for drinking water analysis is available at the following link: Approved Labs . The county will only test your primary drinking water well. Requests to test irrigation wells cannot be honored.
What if I have a water filter?
The county does not encourage the use of water filters which do not meet New York State or Suffolk County standards.Usually the raw or unfiltered water will be tested unless the department or applicant has requested otherwise.
Can I deliver a sample of my water to speed up the process?
No. The sample must be collected by Health Department personnel according to proper sampling protocol, in specially prepared containers, and in accordance with procedures established for quality control.
What should I do until my water is tested?
If you are unsure if your water is safe for consumption, use a bottled water or water from an approved public supply until the analysis is complete.It takes several weeks before you will be notified of your results.A letter explaining the analysis will be mailed to the address indicated on the request form.
What if I am selling my home and need a water analysis right away?
For homes involved in a resale, it is suggested that a commercial laboratory be used.The Health Department cannot ensure that you will receive test results in time to meet contract or closing dates.
What if I work during the day and cannot be home to wait for sample collection?
A sample can be collected from an outside tap or hose bib if one is available.Locked fences or loose dogs sometimes prevent sampling.Be sure the electric is on so that the water pump may be run for a few minutes to flush any stale water from the lines.
What can I do if my well water is contaminated?
The Health Department will suggest some possible remedies depending on the type and amount of contaminants detected. However, the Department cannot mandate any public agency to take corrective action, extend public water, or supply bottled water to you. Generally, the owner of a private well is responsible for his own water supply. In severe cases of contamination financial aid may be available from federal (USEPA) or state (NYSDEC) programs. If you are a tenant, your landlord may be responsible for providing a potable water supply.
Where can I find out more information about well water testing?
For more information, contact the Bureau of Drinking Water at (631) 852-5810
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