FAQS

Municipal drinking water and wells rely on a complex water system you do not have full control over. Even in the best cases, contaminants such as bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and organic compounds can cause health issues for those who drink the water. So, water testing is a must.

But what exactly is it? Water testing refers to collecting and analyzing water for impurities (like the ones listed above, but there are many more). It’s a crucial, necessary step in making your drinking water safe. It’s a process that identifies any potential health hazards, letting you know what you need to do to fix them.
If you are selling a home with potable water that comes from a well, water testing also keeps you in compliance with state regulations like New Jersey's Private Well Testing Act (PWTA).

New Jersey passed the PWTA into law in 2001. It requires all homes with private wells being sold or leased to undergo testing for specific contaminants — 43 parameters in total. The test has to be reviewed by both buyer and seller before the title is closed. The law is meant to protect public health by placing safety standards on private well water. This makes sure that everyone is doing their due diligence around the purity of potable water, which is good for the health of the buyer. But it also protects sellers from being sued over the quality of the water later on.

The PWTA mandates testing for a range of contaminants. That list includes coliform bacteria (if that is present, then e. coli will also be tested for), nitrates, iron, manganese, pH level, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), lead, arsenic, gross alpha particle activity, a range of synthetic organic compounds, perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS).

Certain counties have special additional requirements. Some require testing for mercury and others for uranium.

IWSL simplifies the PWTA testing process through streamlined scheduling, fast and reliable testing by certified technicians, the leading laboratory analysis in New Jersey, and rapid results delivery.

We keep everything in full compliance with New Jersey’s regulations. And our team can offer guidance on addressing any water quality issues that show up in our comprehensive water testing services.

Yes! If you give us 7 days’ notice before the date you need it, IWSL guarantees that testing will be completed beforehand. This is essential for many of our customers, as home sellers are legally required to have PWTA-compliant testing done and the results available for homebuyer perusal before closing the sale.

IWSL is dedicated to customer service and efficiency. Our reliable results and fast turnaround times have established us as the lab that takes New Jersey water testing into the future.

Typically, results are available within 3-7 business days after sample collection. Rush options are available upon request for those requiring faster turnaround.

If your water test indicates the presence of contaminants above acceptable levels, IWSL provides detailed guidance on remediation steps, including treatment options and re-testing.

Yes, IWSL goes beyond PWTA requirements. We can test your water on an even more comprehensive range of quality markers. This includes testing for additional contaminants like PFAS, pesticides, and radon — perfect for homes in particular areas of New Jersey.

Scheduling a water test with IWSL is simple. Call our office or submit a form here and let our team will reach out to you ASAP.

Absolutely. If you have specific concerns, contact us today. Our team can figure out what the right test is for you. Then, we’ll get you accurate results quickly so you can go back to trusting your water.