Know What's in Your Water.
Private well water isn't regulated the way municipal water is. Without testing, there's no way to know if your water is safe. FTGU collects certified water samples and coordinates lab testing — required for VA and FHA financing on well-water properties.
- Certified sample collection protocol
- Total coliform bacteria testing
- E. coli screening
- Nitrate & nitrite testing
- VA loan compliance
- FHA loan compliance
- Certified laboratory processing
- Results typically within 3–5 business days
- Additional parameter testing available
- Written findings included in inspection report
Standard Testing Parameters Explained.
Water quality testing evaluates the safety and basic chemistry of your private water source. Here's what the standard VA/FHA test panel covers and why each parameter matters.
Total Coliform Bacteria
The primary indicator of water contamination from surface runoff, animal waste, or compromised well casing. Any presence of coliform requires treatment before the water is safe to consume.
E. coli
A specific type of fecal coliform that confirms direct sewage or animal waste contamination. E. coli presence is a serious health risk requiring immediate remediation — and a lender requirement to resolve before closing.
Nitrates & Nitrites
Elevated nitrates are common near agricultural land and septic systems. Particularly dangerous for infants. VA and FHA require nitrate testing on all private well properties.
Additional Parameters
Beyond the standard panel, additional tests for iron, manganese, hardness, pH, arsenic, and other parameters are available on request. Useful for properties in agricultural areas or near industrial sites.
Certified Lab Processing
Samples are collected following certified chain-of-custody protocols and sent to a state-certified laboratory. Results are documented and provided in a format accepted by VA, FHA, and conventional lenders.
Fast Turnaround
Standard results are typically returned within 3–5 business days — timed to fit within most real estate inspection contingency windows. Rush processing is available when closing timelines are tight.
VA & FHA Require Water Testing.
If you're financing a property with a private well using a VA or FHA loan, water testing is not optional — it's required before the loan can close. FTGU provides compliant sample collection and lab coordination.
VA Loan Requirements
VA loans require water testing for potability — coliform, E. coli, and nitrates at minimum. Test must be performed by a qualified individual following approved protocols. Results must show safe limits before loan approval.
FHA Loan Requirements
FHA loans require water testing on properties with private wells. FHA also requires that the well and septic system be properly separated from each other on the property to prevent cross-contamination.
Conventional Loans
While not always required, conventional lenders frequently request water testing on rural properties as part of due diligence. Having results ready speeds underwriting and avoids last-minute delays.
Water Sample Testing FAQ
Yes. Water sample collection is commonly added to a buyer's inspection or well and septic inspection. Troy collects the sample during the same site visit for efficiency.
Standard lab results are typically returned within 3–5 business days. This fits within most 10–15 day inspection contingency windows. Rush processing is available if your timeline is tighter.
Failed results — particularly for bacteria — require treatment (typically shock chlorination and re-testing) before the lender will approve the loan. This process usually takes 1–2 additional weeks. Sellers typically bear the cost of remediation.
No. Water testing is for private well-water properties only. Municipal water is regulated by the public utility and does not require testing as part of a real estate transaction.
Yes. Additional parameters including iron, manganese, hardness, pH, arsenic, lead, and agricultural chemicals can be added. Relevant for properties near farms, industrial sites, or in areas with known water quality concerns.
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Know What's in Your Water Before You Close.
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