When you have a point of sale inspection, your inspector will draw water for a Coliform / total coliform / bacteria test. This is a standard test required by all point of sale counties and all loan programs.
Coliform is a bacteria that live in soil, on vegetation and on the surface water. A typical form of this bacteria is E.Coli. E.Coli is found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and their feces. Some strains of this bacteria can survive for long periods of time in the soil and water and can be carried into well casings by insects. Bacteria washed into the ground by rainwater or snow melt are usually filtered out as the water seeps through the soil, but it can enter the water supplies through cracks in the well casings, poorly-sealed caps, fractures in the underlying bedrock, and runoff into sinkholes. Coliform bacteria are the most common contaminants found in private water systems.
Most coliform bacteria do not cause illness, but indicate a breach in the water system. However, since E.coli bacteria are found in fecal material, they are often present with bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause flu-like symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever and diarrhea. Private wells should be tested at least once a year for bacteria, by a laboratory that performs an E.coli test when coliform are present. Test again if there is change in the taste, color, odor or appearance of your water. It your well tests positive for E.Coli you need to have it chlorinated and flushed. Repairs to the casings or well cap might be required as well.
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