How Markham is built
- Before 1961 3%
- 1961–1990 38%
- 1991–2000 17%
- 2001 or later 43%
Wells in Markham
Markham gets Lake Ontario water through York Region, but the city also includes rural land, and York Region notes that some residents get water from private wells on their property.
How testing works in Ontario
Free bacteria testing through Public Health Ontario labs: pick up a kit at a PHO lab or your public health unit and drop it back off. Chemistry (nitrate, sodium, metals) goes to a licensed private lab for a fee. Local health units recommend testing at least three times a year: spring, summer and fall.
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.
Well water testing in Markham: common questions
Is well water testing free in Ontario?
Free bacteria testing through Public Health Ontario labs: pick up a kit at a PHO lab or your public health unit and drop it back off. Chemistry (nitrate, sodium, metals) goes to a licensed private lab for a fee. Local health units recommend testing at least three times a year: spring, summer and fall.
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 Markham?
Markham gets Lake Ontario water through York Region, but the city also includes rural land, and York Region notes that some residents get water from private wells on their property.