Oregon Revised Statutes 448.271(1) requires the seller of real estate containing a well that supplies water for domestic purposes to have the well tested for arsenic, nitrates, and total coliform bacteria and report the results to the Oregon Department of Human Services Drinking Water Program.

Additional information is available at: http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/dwp/index.shtml

Tips when purchasing property with a well:

Conduct a well yield test- A well yield test is not required during real estate transactions, however having one conducted can provide current information on sustained well yield up to the pump capacity. The yield reported
on a well log may not be accurate, especially on older wells. Sellers and buyers should not rely exclusively on well report information.

Make a taste and smell test – Water that passes a water quality test may still not be palatable. Although water treatment systems are available to address these concerns, there can be significant cost to purchasing and
maintaining these systems.