Who Can I Call to Test My Water for Lead?

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are wondering who to call to test water for lead, hire a certified water testing professional or a state-certified laboratory. Look for accreditations from organizations such as NELAP or the EPA and confirm they follow legal standards. Use this pro hiring guide to verify credentials and testing accuracy so you can act confidently.

Certified pros and labs collect and analyze samples correctly, interpret results against the 15 ppb action level, and advise on next steps to improve safety.

Benefits of Hiring a Certified Water Testing Professional to Test Water for Lead

Hiring a certified water testing professional ensures accurate methods, reliable results, and compliance with legal standards. Certified pros and labs follow EPA or equivalent protocols and deliver results you can act on. Professional oversight reduces errors in sampling, handling, and interpretation so you can protect your household’s health with confidence—especially in older homes or areas with known plumbing issues.

• Uses EPA- or equivalent-approved protocols for accuracy

• Holds NELAP or EPA-recognized certifications

• Ensures proper sample collection and handling

• Provides reliable lab analysis and results

• Interprets findings against the 15 ppb action level

• Documents results you can trust for decisions

• Adheres to legal standards for safe water testing

• Reduces uncertainty and provides peace of mind

• Guides next steps when results indicate risk

If your home has older plumbing or you suspect contamination, you might want to consider hiring a local plumber to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Can I Hire a Local or State Health Department for Lead Water Testing?

Local or state health departments are a practical starting point when researching who to call to test water for lead. They often maintain lists of certified laboratories and may offer or facilitate testing services. Some provide test kits or guidance for accurate DIY sampling. Availability and support vary by locality, and you may need to collect and submit samples yourself. Compare options that align with your budget and preferred level of professional involvement.

How Do Pros Test Water for Lead?

Certified pros and labs follow standardized steps designed to produce accurate, reliable results and protect health. They use approved containers, precise timing, and established analysis methods to ensure valid data and clear interpretation.

1. Choose a certified lab accredited by the EPA or an equivalent authority.

2. Collect samples using clean containers provided by the lab.

3. Ensure water has been stagnant for at least six hours before sampling.

4. Submit collected samples to the lab promptly to protect result accuracy.

5. Review results carefully; the EPA action level is 15 parts per billion (ppb).

6. Take immediate action if results exceed 15 ppb.

Adhere strictly to lab protocols to avoid contaminating samples. Submit samples quickly to prevent degraded accuracy. There is no safe level of lead exposure, so precise procedures and timely action matter.

How Much Does Testing Water for Lead Cost?

The cost to hire a professional for lead testing your water ranges from $15 to $200, depending on the type of test you want and your location. Larger homes or difficulty access can increase the price. The professional’s certifications and location also factor into cost. Always request a detailed estimate that includes labor, materials, and fees to avoid unexpected expenses.