Written By: Canadian Water Compliance | On
In Ontario, private wells are a common water source in rural and semi-rural properties. However, when a property with a well is listed for sale, it brings with it a unique set of legal and health obligations for both sellers and buyers. Ensuring the water is safe and properly documented is not just good practice—it's a requirement under provincial guidelines.
Whether you're a real estate agent, buyer, or seller, understanding well water testing and reporting requirements is essential to a smooth and compliant real estate transaction.
Ontario does not currently mandate a water test before a private property sale. However, if a test is provided or referenced, it must meet accuracy and disclosure standards. This is where O. Reg. 903 under the Ontario Water Resources Act comes into play.
According to the regulation:
Well owners are responsible for ensuring the safety of their water.
Any modifications or new well construction must be documented.
Test results that are shared must be from a certified lab.
Additionally, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) strongly encourages testing and full disclosure, especially for rural listings.
Buyers often expect recent, third-party lab results as part of their due diligence. At minimum, tests should include:
E. coli and Total Coliforms – Indicators of microbial contamination
Nitrates and Nitrites – Especially critical for families with infants
Metals and Minerals – Such as lead, arsenic, or iron, depending on the region
Depending on the property's location and known environmental risks, a broader potability package is often recommended.
Failing to test and disclose water issues during a sale can result in:
Legal liability for sellers or agents if health concerns arise post-sale
Deal cancellations or price reductions if buyers uncover unsafe water conditions
Costly upgrades like filtration or new well drilling after purchase
Water safety is increasingly becoming a priority for insurance companies and mortgage lenders as well.
Test before listing: This avoids last-minute issues during negotiation
Use a certified lab: Results must be defensible and trustworthy
Share full reports: Transparency builds buyer confidence
Fix known issues proactively: Addressing contamination or equipment defects can speed up the transaction
We work with real estate professionals, sellers, and buyers across Ontario to provide:
Certified well water testing for real estate transactions
Rush options for urgent closings
Comprehensive packages tailored to rural and suburban properties
Easy-to-understand lab reports and recommendations
Whether you're buying your dream home or listing a country property, we make sure the water is safe—and the paperwork is sound.
