Water Quality Testing

SMR Inspection Services provides water quality testing for residential and rural properties throughout Western Colorado. Water testing helps identify potential contaminants and provides objective information about the quality of the water being supplied to the home—whether from a private well or public water system.

Because water quality issues are not visible during a standard home inspection, testing is the only reliable way to evaluate what is present at the tap.

Why Test Water Before Purchasing a Home?

The home-buying process is an ideal time to perform water quality testing. Buyers are already evaluating the property and addressing potential risks, making it easier to factor water-related findings into decision-making or negotiations.

Water testing before purchase helps:

• Identify potential health or usability concerns

• Avoid surprises after moving in

• Understand whether treatment or filtration may be needed

• Address issues while still under contract

In many cases, mitigation costs can be discussed as part of the transaction when test results identify elevated contaminant levels.

Public Water vs. Private Water Sources

Homes may be supplied by:

• Public water systems, or

• Private wells or shared water sources

While public water suppliers publish water quality reports, those reports reflect system-wide data—not the condition of the water at the individual home. Plumbing materials, service lines, and fixtures can all influence water quality between the main supply and the tap.

Private wells do not receive ongoing municipal monitoring, making periodic testing especially important.

Why Water Quality Matters

Water quality can affect:

• Health and safety

• Taste and odor

• Plumbing systems and appliances

• Long-term maintenance costs

Many homeowners are unaware of what is present in their water. Testing provides clear, factual data so informed decisions can be made about treatment or further evaluation if needed.

Common Contaminants Evaluated

Water quality testing may include analysis for selected contaminants such as:

• Lead

• Nitrates

• Bacteria (when applicable)

• pH and mineral content

• Other region-specific concerns

One of the most commonly requested tests is for lead, which can enter water through older plumbing components or service lines. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, lead exposure is a known health concern, particularly for young children. Testing helps identify whether further action is needed.

Testing & Reporting

Water samples are collected following proper protocols and submitted to a certified laboratory for analysis. Results are documented in a clear report that identifies:

• What was tested

• Laboratory findings

• Reference standards for comparison

Water quality testing does not diagnose health conditions, but it provides objective data to support informed decisions about treatment, filtration, or further evaluation.

Schedule Water Quality Testing

If you are purchasing or occupying a home in Western Colorado and would like to better understand the quality of the water supply, contact SMR Inspection Services to discuss water quality testing options.