How Montréal is built
- Before 1961 48%
- 1961–1990 38%
- 1991–2000 6%
- 2001 or later 8%
Wells in Montréal
Montréal is a densely built island city served by municipal water plants, so private wells are uncommon.
How testing works in Quebec
There's no free provincial service: send samples to a lab accredited by Quebec's environment ministry (the CEAEQ list), which supplies the bottles. The ministry recommends testing for bacteria at least twice a year, in spring and fall, plus a chemical analysis while the well is in use.
What to test for
- Bacteria (total coliforms and E. coli): at least once a year, and after flooding, heavy rain or work on the well.
- Nitrate, especially near farmland or septic systems.
- Metals and naturally occurring contaminants such as arsenic, uranium or manganese when a well is new and every few years after, depending on local geology.
Communities served
Nearby communities without a page of their own: Beaconsfield (about 21 km away). Montréal is the closest city we cover.
The organizations and professionals listed for Montréal may or may not travel to every community, so ask when you call.
Well water testing in Montréal: common questions
Is well water testing free in Quebec?
There's no free provincial service: send samples to a lab accredited by Quebec's environment ministry (the CEAEQ list), which supplies the bottles. The ministry recommends testing for bacteria at least twice a year, in spring and fall, plus a chemical analysis while the well is in use.
How often should I test my well?
For bacteria, at least once a year and after flooding, heavy rain or well work; many health units recommend more often. Test chemistry when the well is new and every few years after.
Are private wells common in Montréal?
Montréal is a densely built island city served by municipal water plants, so private wells are uncommon.