Potable Water
Definition
Potable water is water that meets the quality standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act and Idaho state regulations for safe human consumption. For a private well to be classified as providing potable water, it must test negative for total coliform bacteria and E. coli, and meet limits for nitrates, heavy metals, and other regulated contaminants. Potable water certification is not a permanent status — a well that tested as potable at completion can later become non-potable if the casing is compromised, if a nearby contamination source enters the groundwater, or if the well is not properly maintained. Banks and title companies require current potable water test documentation before closing real estate transactions on properties with private wells.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Potable Water Matters
How Trident Drilling Company Uses It
Trident Drilling facilitates water testing as part of well completion and inspections, and provides clients with the laboratory documentation needed to confirm potable water status for property transactions, lender requirements, or personal assurance.