At the option of the Approving Authority, the results of water quality tests performed by a Maryland certified water laboratory may be substituted for results obtained by the Approving Authority from a State-operated laboratory. The Maryland certified water laboratory shall certify that the sample was obtained and transported in accordance with COMAR 26.08.05. All tests taken by a Maryland certified water laboratory for an initial Certificate of Potability shall be submitted to the Approving Authority by the well owner prior to issuance of the Certificate of Potability.