Water testing in the UK
Most households on the mains do not need to pay for a water test. Your water company already tests the supply continuously and must investigate problems at your tap for free. Paid laboratory testing is for private supplies, suspected lead pipework, and documented results.
The three routes to getting water tested
- Your water company — free
- For anything on the mains supply. They have a statutory duty to investigate quality complaints at your tap and will normally sample within a few days at no charge.
- Your local council — private supplies
- Environmental health teams risk-assess and sample private supplies such as boreholes and wells under the Private Water Supplies Regulations. Charges vary by council.
- A UKAS-accredited laboratory — paid
- When you need an independent, documented result: roughly £50–£120 for a domestic core panel, £200–£500 for a full private supply panel. Check the lab holds current UKAS accreditation for drinking water.
Water testing by area
Local guidance including your supplier, water hardness and what you can get tested free.
Milton Keynes
Check what is already published for your postcode
Before paying for anything, see the official Drinking Water Inspectorate lab results for your own supply zone — nitrates, lead, chlorine, fluoride and hardness.
Look up your postcode →