New York well water testing: ELAP-certified labs and how often to test
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) advises testing your well at least once a year for bacteria, and for other contaminants every 3–5 years. [source]
Use an ELAP-certified lab
NYSDOH points well owners to laboratories certified by its Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) for potable water, or to your local health department for a list. [source] You can search certified labs with the NYSDOH ELAP lab search. [source]
Also test when…
- after you disinfect and flush the well or do maintenance (E. coli and coliform)
- your water looks, smells or tastes different
- after floods, changes in land use, or concerns about local contaminants [source]
Free PFAS testing pilot (select counties)
If you use a private well in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Suffolk, Ulster or Westchester County, you may be eligible for free PFAS testing and treatment rebates through the NYSDOH pilot program. [source]
Suspected fuel or chemical contamination: contact your health department and the NYS DEC Spill Hotline at 800-457-7362. [source]
FAQ
How often should New York well owners test?
NYSDOH advises at least once a year for bacteria and every 3 to 5 years for other contaminants.
Which labs can test NY well water?
NYSDOH points to labs certified by its Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) for potable water.
Is there free PFAS testing for NY wells?
NYSDOH runs a pilot offering free PFAS testing and rebates to eligible private well users in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Suffolk, Ulster and Westchester counties.
Sources
- NYSDOH – Private Wells (accessed 2026-10-21)
- NYSDOH – Individual Water Supply Wells, Fact Sheet #3 (accessed 2026-10-21)
- NYSDOH – ELAP lab search (accessed 2026-10-21)
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.