Written By: Canadian Water Compliance | On
When the warmer weather arrives in Ontario, thousands of seasonal businesses—from golf courses and resorts to summer camps and roadside attractions—begin preparations to open their doors. One critical step that often gets overlooked? Comprehensive water testing.
After months of inactivity, water systems can develop significant health hazards, including bacterial growth, lead contamination, and Legionella risks. If your seasonal business operates with private water supplies (like wells) or even municipally supplied water that has been sitting stagnant, ensuring your water is safe before reopening is not just a good idea—it’s a business responsibility.
In this article, we'll explain why water testing matters so much for seasonal businesses, outline the risks of skipping it, and show how easy it is to stay compliant and protect your customers, staff, and reputation.
During the winter months, unused pipes, water tanks, and fixtures can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and contaminants. Common risks include:
Legionella bacteria thriving in stagnant, lukewarm water systems
Coliform bacteria and E. coli infiltration, especially in private wells
Heavy metal leaching, such as lead and copper, from old or corroded pipes
Biofilm buildup inside plumbing, harboring pathogens
Without thorough flushing and professional water testing, these risks can easily go undetected—and can pose serious health threats once your business reopens to the public.
Serving contaminated water, even unintentionally, can lead to outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease, gastrointestinal illness, and other serious health problems. Beyond harming your customers and employees, it can also expose your business to major legal and financial consequences:
Public health violations under Ontario's Safe Drinking Water Act
Litigation and insurance claims due to illness linked to water contamination
Reputational damage that can take years to repair
In some cases, seasonal businesses may also be subject to inspection and water safety regulations, particularly if they provide food service, accommodations, or recreational facilities.
If you’re planning to reopen your seasonal business, here are the key best practices to follow:
Flush your entire water system thoroughly to eliminate stagnant water and potential contaminants.
Schedule a professional water test for bacteria (e.g., E. coli, total coliforms), Legionella, and metals like lead and copper.
Test your hot water systems specifically for Legionella if you operate showers, spas, or pools.
Document all testing and remediation efforts to demonstrate due diligence.
Implement a water management plan to maintain water quality throughout the operating season.
Testing before reopening doesn’t just safeguard health—it’s an investment in your business’s smooth operation and reputation.
At Canadian Water Compliance, we specialize in seasonal business water testing across Ontario. Our services include:
Certified sampling and laboratory analysis
Full testing for bacteria, metals, and Legionella
Clear, easy-to-understand reports and recommendations
Assistance in developing seasonal water management plans
Whether you operate a lakeside lodge, a golf course, a marina, or a summer attraction, we’ll help ensure your water is safe, your business is compliant, and your guests are protected.
Get peace of mind before you reopen.
Contact Canadian Water Compliance today to schedule your professional water testing services. Let’s make this season your safest yet!
