Well Water Test Kit Information and Services

The Missouri State Public Health Laboratory offers both bacteria and chemical private drinking water testing.

You should have your well tested once each year for total coliform bacteria, E. coli, and nitrates. If you suspect other contaminants, you should test for those as well. You should also have your well tested if:

• There are known problems with well water in your area
• You have experienced problems near your well (i.e., flooding, land disturbances, and nearby waste disposal sites)
• You replace or repair any part of your well system
• You notice a change in water quality (i.e., taste, color, odor)

For questions regarding the status of your water test or assistance understanding your private drinking water laboratory test report, contact the agency from which you received your private drinking water sample collection kit from.
The SPHL is able to analyze water samples from private drinking water sources. Private water sources include private groundwater wells, cisterns, and larger private water systems that serve more than one residence.

• Private ground water wells usually supply water to an individual residence.
• Private water systems are those that serve no more than 25 people at least 60 days of the year and have no more than 15 service connections. Each building serviced by the same private water system is considered to be a service connection for that system. Most private water systems use ground water wells.

If your water source does not meet these specifications, contact the Department of Natural Resources Public Drinking Water Branch.