Michigan well water testing: EGLE lab, MDHHS guidance and certified labs
Short answer: Michigan EGLE recommends testing for coliform bacteria and nitrates every year. MDHHS adds arsenic and lead every 3 to 5 years and PFAS at least once. You can order a kit from EGLE's Drinking Water Laboratory at 517-335-8184 or use a state-certified private lab, and your local health department can recommend tests.
The U.S. Geological Survey estimated that about 2.60 million people in Michigan supplied their own household water in 2015. USGS says the most common source of self-supplied water is a well. [source] [source]
What to test and how often
- Coliform bacteria and nitrates every year, as part of routine well maintenance (EGLE). [source]
- MDHHS recommends coliform bacteria and E. coli plus nitrate and nitrite yearly, arsenic and lead every 3–5 years, and PFAS at least once. [source]
- Ask your local health department what to test for, since recommendations differ by area and household. [source]
Contaminants Michigan highlights
EGLE lists coliforms, nitrites, and metals such as arsenic and lead as standard concerns for private wells. [source] MDHHS adds PFAS: if you live near a possible PFAS source, call MDHHS at 844-934-1315. If your home is in an area under PFAS investigation, MDHHS may be able to test your water for free. [source]
Where to test
- EGLE Drinking Water Laboratory: call 517-335-8184 to order a kit, shipped or picked up by appointment. Allow 5–7 business days to process the order, plus shipping. Return samples in the lab's own containers. [source]
- Private certified labs: use EGLE's Laboratory Certification Program lists. [source]
County guides
No county pages for this state yet. Your local health department is the first stop, per EPA guidance. [source]
FAQ
How should Michigan private well owners test their water?
Michigan EGLE recommends testing for coliform bacteria and nitrates every year. MDHHS adds arsenic and lead every 3 to 5 years and PFAS at least once. You can order a kit from EGLE's Drinking Water Laboratory at 517-335-8184 or use a state-certified private lab, and your local health department can recommend tests.
Can I get free PFAS testing in Michigan?
MDHHS says to call 844-934-1315 to see if your home is in an area under PFAS investigation, in which case MDHHS may be able to test your water for free.
How do I order a well test kit from EGLE?
Call the EGLE Drinking Water Laboratory at 517-335-8184. EGLE says to allow 5 to 7 business days to process the order, plus shipping time.
Sources
- USGS – Estimated Use of Water in the United States, County-Level Data for 2015 (domestic self-supplied population) (accessed 2026-10-23)
- USGS – Domestic Water Use (accessed 2026-10-23)
- Michigan EGLE – How to get your drinking water tested (accessed 2026-10-23)
- Michigan EGLE – Resources for private residential well owners (accessed 2026-10-23)
- Michigan EGLE – Laboratory certifications (accessed 2026-10-23)
- US EPA – Protect Your Home's Water (accessed 2026-10-23)
Informational only, not health, medical, legal or real-estate advice. Programs and fees change; confirm with the official source. See our disclaimer and affiliate disclosure.