The standard drinking-water term is maximum contaminant level, or MCL. It is an enforceable limit for a particular contaminant in regulated drinking water.
What this means at your property
An MCL belongs to a defined water-quality framework. It is not a universal threshold for indoor air, surface dust or every type of cleanup. A result needs the substance, units and applicable standard before it can be interpreted.
Is an MCL the same as an MCLG?
No. A maximum contaminant level goal is a health-based goal, while an MCL is an enforceable standard. Ask the water provider or qualified assessor which value applies to the reported result.
Related terms
Further reading: EPA: how drinking-water contaminants are regulated.