Water Testing in Nova Scotia
The Water Shed helps homeowners arrange well water and drinking water testing in Nova Scotia, with local sample-kit and drop-off support and laboratory analysis by Precision Water Testing. Based in Dartmouth, we help customers in Halifax Regional Municipality and communities served by our depot network choose testing for bacteria, metals and water chemistry.
Book your water test
Use The Water Shed Water Testing website to compare packages, find a sample-kit pickup and drop-off depot, and submit your sample details. The Water Shed supports the collection process; Precision Water Testing performs the laboratory analysis.
Compare tests and current prices
Find sample-kit pickup and drop-off locations
Water testing in Antigonish
Pick up a sample kit or drop off your water sample at Next Level Skateboards, 17 James St, Antigonish. Sample acceptance hours are Monday–Thursday, 10 AM–2 PM. This is a local sample depot in The Water Shed network; laboratory analysis is performed by Precision Water Testing in Dartmouth. View the Antigonish depot and choose your test.
Which water test do I need?
- Bacteria testing: choose a package that tests for total coliform bacteria and E. coli.
- Metals testing: our total metals package includes arsenic, uranium, lead, iron and manganese, among other metals.
- Combined and chemistry packages: compare the listed parameters to choose broader testing. A bacteria-only result does not assess metals or all other contaminants.
How much does water testing cost?
The price depends on the package and turnaround option. Our water-testing catalogue lists bacteria, metals, combined and comprehensive chemistry options with current prices. Check the selected option before ordering, or call 902-334-8378 for help choosing a test.
How to submit a water sample
- Choose a depot and collect your kit. Check its hours and sample cut-off time before collecting water.
- Follow the kit instructions. Use the supplied bottles, record the collection date and time, and complete the online submission details.
- Pay and return your sample. Follow the payment and transport instructions and return it within the required holding time. After drop-off, call 902-201-3388 to arrange sample pickup.
- Receive your report by email. Ask about the expected turnaround for your chosen package before collecting, especially if you have a closing deadline.
Need help with a result or an existing filtration system? The Water Shed can help you explore water-treatment options. Laboratory results describe the sample and parameters tested; they do not guarantee future water quality.
The Water Shed: 515 Main Street, Dartmouth · 902-462-5566. Check the depot directory for sample acceptance instructions before visiting.
FAQs on Water Testing in Nova Scotia
The Province of Nova Scotia’s current “Test your well water” guidance recommends testing private wells at least annually for bacteria and every five years for chemical contaminants. Your well conditions may require more frequent or targeted testing. Test after flooding, a dry well, changes in water quality, or well and plumbing work. Ask the laboratory which tests suit your situation. Clear water and a normal taste or smell do not establish safety.
Yes. Testing helps assess water quality after treatment and whether the system is addressing the parameters it was installed to treat. The appropriate tests depend on your source water, previous results and equipment. Ask the laboratory whether to collect treated and untreated samples, and follow its instructions for each sampling point. A treatment system does not replace ongoing testing and maintenance. The Water Shed can help you discuss treatment options based on your report.
Confirm the required tests, sampling arrangements and report deadline with your lender, real-estate professional or other requesting party before ordering. Requirements differ, so do not assume a bacteria-only test will satisfy your transaction. Laboratory water-quality tests and well yield or flow tests answer different questions. Call The Water Shed at 902-462-5566 to discuss your testing needs and timing.
Turnaround depends on your test package and the option selected. Confirm the expected timing before collecting your sample, especially for a property closing. Depot cut-off times and transport to the laboratory also matter. Your report is sent to the email address on your submission. For sample or report enquiries, call 902-334-8378.