Do home inspectors test water supply quality?

Author: Mr. Karl Waelchi  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 7, 2025

With some basic training and equipment, home inspectors can offer water quality testing as an ancillary service or as part of their standard home inspection. In many areas, mortgage lenders require water quality testing for properties with private wells.

Do home inspectors test water quality?

Water testing is a straightforward test that your home inspector can provide. If the water sampling fails a water quality test, these issues should be addressed before home buyers sign on the dotted line.

What is the biggest red flag in a home inspection?

10 Common Home Inspection Red Flags
  • Roof: Roof replacement can be one of the most costly repairs a homeowner encounters. ...
  • Foundation: The entire home rests on the foundation, and repairs aren't often easy or affordable. ...
  • Windows and Doors: Windows and doors can be replaced, but not without significant expense.

How do I test my home water quality?

Often county health departments will help you test for bacteria or nitrates. If not, you can have your water tested by a state certified laboratory. You can find one in your area by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 or visiting www.epa.gov/safewater/labs.

Do inspectors check for water damage?

Plumbing Problems

Leaks, poor water pressure, and outdated pipes (such as polybutylene) can lead to major expenses. Slow drainage might indicate a failing sewer line, costing up to $50,000 for a full replacement. Inspectors check for water stains, soft floors, and strong drainage to identify these risks early.

Water Quality Testing - What to Look Out for

Do home inspectors check faucets?

Plumbing – The plumbing inspection includes a check for visible leaks, functioning faucets, shower heads and toilets, and to ensure the exposed pipes are not damaged or dangerously outdated.

Who can check for water damage?

An industry-certified inspection company will follow the proper procedures to determine the origin and cause of water damage. Documenting all damages helps clients understand the losses and information they need to file a water damage insurance claim.

How do you know if your water quality is bad?

7 Signs Your Tap Water Might Be Contaminated
  1. Unusual taste. You notice a metallic, oily, or fishy taste.
  2. Chlorine smell. ...
  3. Sulfur smell. ...
  4. A cloudy, foamy look. ...
  5. Low water pressure. ...
  6. Blackening, dirt, or sediments in the sink.
  7. Government advisories and boil warning.

Can I get my well water tested for free?

Some counties offer free well water testing, so check with your county first. If they don't, use this EPA website to find a list of state-certified laboratories in your area that do water testing, or contact your county or state health department or your State Certification Officer for assistance.

Do plumbers test water quality?

Contaminants like chemicals, lead, heavy metals, and bacteria can find their way into the water supply. By testing water quality in your home, plumbing professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding your family's well-being as well as helping with the longevity of the plumbing systems in your home.

What is the riskiest part of a home inspection?

Water damage can be the most expensive of all the major issues a home inspection may encounter because it can cause so much damage.

When should you walk away after a home inspection?

If the inspection precedes any purchase agreement, or you have an inspection contingency, these dealbreakers may be enough for you to walk away: Health hazards: If a home inspection uncovers health hazards such as asbestos, lead paint or other toxic substances, you may want to rethink your purchase.

What is a deal breaker in a home inspection?

Plumbing and Electrical Issues

Outdated or faulty electrical systems and plumbing problems can be major dealbreakers. Boulder's older homes may have outdated wiring or plumbing that doesn't meet current standards. Any unsafe conditions or the need for extensive updates in these areas should be carefully considered.

Who tests water quality?

Many county environmental or health departments have programs for discounted water testing. Check with their county first!

Do home inspectors check for moisture?

There are several ways to test moisture found during a home inspection. First of which is with the use of a simple moisture meter. Most home inspectors have these tools. These home inspectors who do not use these tools should be avoided.

How much is a water well inspection?

How Much Does a Well Inspection Cost? An average well inspection ranges from $300 to $500. This depends on the inspector's rates as well as the type of water tests they intend to conduct to check water quality. It also depends on whether they provide a septic inspection as well.

What are the symptoms of bad well water?

Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, nausea, headaches, fever, fatigue, and even death sometimes. Infants, children, elderly people, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to get sick or die from disease-causing microorganisms in drinking water.

Where can I take my water to get it tested?

Your local health department. Your local environmental department. The U.S. EPA by calling their Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

How can I test my well water quality at home?

How to Test Your Water Quality at Home Without a Kit
  1. #1 Assess Color, Taste, and Odor Test.
  2. #2 Use a Water Hardness Test.
  3. #3 Try a Magnifying Glass.
  4. #4 Boil Your Water for a Dissolved Solids Test.
  5. Additional Factors to Consider.
  6. Why Test Your Home's Water Quality.
  7. Rayne Water: Aiding Water Quality Since 1928.

Are home water test kits accurate?

Most do-it-yourself or at-home test kits are neither very accurate nor comprehensive. Too many of these products exaggerate what they're able to provide for you.

How do you know if the water in your house is bad?

Taste and Odor: One of the most common signs that your water is contaminated is if its taste and odor have changed. If your water tastes or smells bad, you should be concerned and consider having your water professionally tested. Discolored Water: The appearance of water can also signal that it is contaminated.

How do you fix poor water quality?

Here are five strategies to improve water quality that will make your water safe to use.
  1. Test Your Water. The easiest way to test the quality of the water in your home is with a test kit. ...
  2. Boil Your Water. ...
  3. Filter Your Water. ...
  4. Get a Water Softener. ...
  5. Take Care of Your Pipes.

Do home inspectors look for water damage?

There are several ways that a home inspector will find evidence of water damage. By having a thorough inspection that looks for cracks, flooring issues, stains, and peeling paint, you can ensure the home you are buying is in tip-top condition.

Does homeowners insurance cover water problems?

Source of damage

If the source of the damage comes from inside your home, such as a water leak from plumbing , a broken pipe or overflowing appliance, you'll likely be covered by your homeowners insurance.

Are Servpro estimates free?

Servpro does free estimates after a free in-home inspection. The company will not give you an estimate over the phone or email without first examining your carpets.

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