Water Supply Evaluations and Lead Analysis

A water supply evaluation performed by the Kent County Health Department consists of a review of well construction, location, and water quality. Water samples for bacteriological and partial chemical analysis are collected and analyzed by the Kent County Laboratory.

It is our understanding that FHA and VA are now requiring the water also be analyzed for lead. As part of the water supply evaluation, the Health Department does not collect samples for lead. Reasons for not collecting the lead samples are:

• The prevalence of lead in groundwater in this area is extremely low or doesn't exist.
• Primary source of lead in water is the plumbing itself (lead solder, lead pipes, some brass fixtures), not the source water.
• Major sources of lead which results in childhood lead poisoning are lead based paint and environmental lead dust.
• To get an accurate sample, the water must sit in the pipes overnight and the sample collected in the morning before any water is used.
• Additional time and costs for the lead sample.

We have spoken with FHA with respect to the limited value, additional costs, and time delays of water lead analysis however they still insist on the test.

If a lead sample is needed, we recommend you contact a certified private laboratory and arrange for sample collection and analysis.