Connecticut Well Water Tests for Loan Refinance & Mortgages
Water tests for loan refinances and mortgages in Connecticut are often required by the lending institution or bank so they can be assured there is a safe water supply to the property.
Are you confused or frustrated when it comes to water test requirements by your lender as part of a real estate transaction?
In CT it’s important you understand some things about water testing for real estate transactions. We will try to clarify the process associated with well testing for you.
For most real estate transactions at minimum, a bacteria analysis for coli form and e coli is required. This is the absolute bare minimum testing that can be performed on Connecticut well water. It is however the bacteria levels that are what deem water as Potable (safe for consumption) or not.
Some loans such as VA , FHA, USDA and refi’s require more in depth testing including but not limited a full potability test, lead testing and in some instances VOC testing and more. It is important to ask your lender what the exact requirements are for your loan so that we can draw the appropriate samples when the water testing service specialist come out for your appointment.
Bacteria Water Testing:
The water sample are drawn from the point of use. They are then analyzed for coliform and fecal bacteria. DEP / EPA standards require NO ppm ( parts per million ) Even one ppm will deem the water not potable (suited for consumption). The results are generally reported as either negative or positive / absent or present.
When a water sample tests positive for bacteria the simple and easiest solution is to disinfect the well and re-test. There are long term solutions as well if bacteria is an on going issue such as UV light systems. In most instances the well disinfection / chlorination is adequate though.
If a homeowner is super concerned with future contamination a UV light system is installed regardless of the test results. The most important thing for a buyer to understand is that the test results area a one day snap shot as of that date only.
FHA/VA Well Water Testing:
Again, certain loans in CT require this testing. Banking and lending requirements are ever changing so again be sure to check with you lender especially for VA, FHA and USDA loans. The most important thing you can do is check in advance, so that problems do not occur right before closing. The state requires a potability test for property transfers and you want to know your water quality and be assured it is safe for consumption when you purchase a new home anyway, don’t you?
As of the end of 2022 the state requires the testing of uranium, arsenic and lead in addition the the potability test for properties that have new wells. Properties with existing wells may choose to do the additional testing but it is not required.
Time Frames:
We realize that once a Connecticut real estate contract is signed they often include specific time frames in which to perform all of the required testing and inspections and receive the reports back. Bacteria results usually take 2 to 3 business days, full potability tests take 4 to 5 business days (there is a rush service available for both of these at an additional charge), other water tests such as radon, VOC, pesticides, TPH, uranium etc may take longer. Please plan accordingly and as always, our testing service does our very best to accommodate your specific water testing needs. We need at least 2 weeks notice for PFAS testing.
Caution:
Most lending institutions require an independent third party water testing service to draw the samples to ensure they are correctly drawn and handled. A documented chain of custody is usually required as well in order for the results to be certified. There are also very specific protocols to follow when drawing well water samples in order for the results to be accurate and as precise as possible.
Schedule your water test today! 888-558-1574
Call our well testing specialists today at 888-558-1574 to have your water tested
