FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What do I need for testing my water?
A: A water sample kit – (sample bottle and a “PAID” submission form with barcode). The
Water Test Kit Order form can be downloaded at
Q: What can I test my water for?
A: Bacteria (coliform); Fluoride; and Total Nitrate‐Nitrite.
Q: How do I obtain a water sample test kit?
A: The water sample test kit(s) can be shipped to your location; or picked up at the
ISDH Laboratories, Monday thru Friday between 8:15am and 4:30pm, except State holidays.
Q: What is the cost for a drinking water test kit?
A: Unless you qualify for a listed exemption, the cost is $16.50 per test (10.00 + 6.50 s/h).
If picked up at the ISDH Laboratories the cost is $10.00. Swimming Pool kits $15.00.
Example: 4 Bacti (pool) kits is 60.00 + 6.50 = $66.50.
Q: Do you accept credit/debit cards as payment?
A: No. Pre‐payment is required with either a check or money order made out to ISDH.
Q: Do I get a receipt for my water test kit purchase?
A: No. All pre‐paid orders are stamped “PAID” in red on the upper left of the
submission form. Only original bar‐coded forms are accepted. NO COPIES.
Q: If I purchased a test kit do I still need to send in a check with the bottle?
A: No. Once you have paid for the kit no additional money is due. Check your form for “PAID”.
Q: How soon after ordering will I get my order?
A: Expect delivery within two (2) business days after receipt of the Water Test
Kit Order form and payment. Please note: The ISDH Laboratories ships kits by UPS.
UPS does not deliver to P.O. Boxes, only to street and road addresses.
Q: I sent in a water sample and was told it was too long in transit. Do I need to pay
for another test kit?
A: Yes. To prevent this from happening, please read the instructions on the submission
form as it pertains to sampling requirements. Samples shipped by UPS usually are received
within the thirty (30) hour timeframe. Do not ship the day before an upcoming state holiday.
Q: I have already paid $100 to IDEM. Does this cover any of the water testing?
A: No. It is an administrative fee required by IDEM for their purposes.
Q: I have received the water sample kit, but have questions about testing. Who do I contact?
A: Call 317‐921‐5874 and you will be directed to the lab area that can answer your questions.