Learn why FHA water testing is required for well water homes, what we test for, and how to avoid delays in your home purchase.
If you’re buying a home in Indian River County with an FHA loan—and it’s on well water—there’s a step you can’t skip: FHA water testing.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan program is designed to help people buy homes who might otherwise struggle to qualify. But they have strict safety standards, especially for homes on private wells. The water must be tested for bacteria, nitrates, nitrites, and lead before the loan can close.
This isn’t just a formality—it’s about making sure the water you drink, cook with, and bathe in is safe.
What We Test For and Why It Matters
- Bacteria (E. Coli + Total Coliform): Indicators of contamination, often from surface water or septic intrusion.
- Nitrates + Nitrites: Can come from fertilizers or septic systems and are dangerous in high levels, especially to infants.
- Lead: Toxic even in small amounts; often from old plumbing materials.
Even if you’re not using an FHA loan, these are good tests to run if your home is on a well.
How the FHA Water Test Works
- On-Site Collection – I start at the well to confirm it’s active, then collect water from a clean tap—often the kitchen sink—after letting it run to flush the lines.
- Cold Chain Shipping – The sample is placed in a sealed bottle, kept cold with a freezer pack, and packed in a pre-labeled shipping container.
- Time Sensitivity – Because the sample must be processed quickly by the lab, Friday, weekend, or holiday collections incur additional fees for expedited shipping.
Why the Timeline Matters
The lab must receive your water sample within a specific window to ensure accurate results. That’s why I always coordinate with clients—and sometimes agents—to avoid unnecessary rush fees.
Results usually arrive within three business days, but we can get them sooner for an added cost.
Who Needs This Test?
- FHA loan applicants with homes on well water
- Buyers with a contract requiring water testing
- Homeowners who haven’t tested their well in over a year
Sean’s Advice: Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
- Schedule water testing early in the inspection process—especially if you’re on a tight closing timeline.
- Even if your loan doesn’t require it, annual water testing is a smart move for any well owner.
- If your test fails, don’t panic—most water quality issues have straightforward fixes, but they take time.