A lot of clients I work with and friends of mine often describe their perfect home as “4 bedrooms, 2 baths on 5 acres”. Honestly, I feel the same way. What could be better than driving down your own private lane, lined by trees as the deer prance off after your car startles them?
Now imagine, you walk into your perfect home and fill up a glass of water from the tap. It tastes like metal and there is an off smell to it. Then you decide to take a stroll across the yard only to feel the ground squish and squash beneath your feet. You call a professional that proceeds to tell you that your water has bacteria and iron in it. He also mentions that the squishy yard means you need a new septic system.
And for the low price of $30,000 he can give you a new septic and fix your water quality.
That sounds like a nightmare, but that very thing happened to a friend of mine’s mom and dad before I got my real estate license (yes that was a while ago). And the peculiar thing is most of the time those problems can easily be avoided. All it takes is a few ounces of prevention.
Those ounces start before you ever buy the home. You see, most people don’t know that a septic and well test don’t cost more than about $500 altogether. And you may think that sounds like a lot of money, but I can tell you $500 is a whole lot better than $30,000.
So before you buy a home on well and septic, take a screen shot of these 5 things to consider:
1. Water Quality and Quantity:
Testing: Ensure the water quality meets safety standards by conducting comprehensive tests for bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. This usually includes a basic potability test and may also include testing for heavy metals and other potential pollutants.
Flow Rate: Verify that the well provides a sufficient flow rate and quantity of water to meet the household's needs. An inadequate flow rate can lead to water shortages, especially during periods of high use.
2. Septic System Inspection:
Professional Inspection: Hire a licensed septic inspector to evaluate the system. This inspection should include checking the tank, distribution box, and drain field for signs of damage or failure.
Age and Maintenance Records: Determine the age of the septic system and review maintenance records. Regular pumping and proper maintenance can significantly extend the system's lifespan. Systems older than 20-30 years might be nearing the end of their useful life.
3. Well Construction and Location:
Well Depth and Construction: Verify that the well is properly constructed and deep enough to provide safe and reliable water. Shallow wells are more susceptible to contamination.
Proximity to Septic System: Ensure the well is located a safe distance from the septic system to prevent contamination. Local regulations typically specify a minimum separation distance (e.g., 50-100 feet).
4. Soil and Drainage Conditions:
Soil Type: The type of soil affects the septic system's efficiency. Sandy soils drain too quickly, while clay soils may not drain well enough. A percolation test can determine if the soil is suitable for a septic system.
Drainage and Landscape: Proper drainage around both the well and septic system is crucial. Poor drainage can lead to system failure and groundwater contamination.
5. Regulatory Compliance and Permits:
Local Regulations: Ensure the systems comply with local health and environmental regulations. Non-compliant systems may require costly upgrades or replacements.
Permits and Certifications: Verify that all necessary permits were obtained for the installation of both the well and septic systems. Lack of proper documentation can indicate potential problems or unpermitted work.
If you would like access to off-market and unlisted homes before they hit the market, text OFF-MARKET 717-467-4806
Now imagine, you walk into your perfect home and fill up a glass of water from the tap. It tastes like metal and there is an off smell to it. Then you decide to take a stroll across the yard only to feel the ground squish and squash beneath your feet. You call a professional that proceeds to tell you that your water has bacteria and iron in it. He also mentions that the squishy yard means you need a new septic system.
And for the low price of $30,000 he can give you a new septic and fix your water quality.
That sounds like a nightmare, but that very thing happened to a friend of mine’s mom and dad before I got my real estate license (yes that was a while ago). And the peculiar thing is most of the time those problems can easily be avoided. All it takes is a few ounces of prevention.
Those ounces start before you ever buy the home. You see, most people don’t know that a septic and well test don’t cost more than about $500 altogether. And you may think that sounds like a lot of money, but I can tell you $500 is a whole lot better than $30,000.
So before you buy a home on well and septic, take a screen shot of these 5 things to consider:
1. Water Quality and Quantity:
Testing: Ensure the water quality meets safety standards by conducting comprehensive tests for bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. This usually includes a basic potability test and may also include testing for heavy metals and other potential pollutants.
Flow Rate: Verify that the well provides a sufficient flow rate and quantity of water to meet the household's needs. An inadequate flow rate can lead to water shortages, especially during periods of high use.
2. Septic System Inspection:
Professional Inspection: Hire a licensed septic inspector to evaluate the system. This inspection should include checking the tank, distribution box, and drain field for signs of damage or failure.
Age and Maintenance Records: Determine the age of the septic system and review maintenance records. Regular pumping and proper maintenance can significantly extend the system's lifespan. Systems older than 20-30 years might be nearing the end of their useful life.
3. Well Construction and Location:
Well Depth and Construction: Verify that the well is properly constructed and deep enough to provide safe and reliable water. Shallow wells are more susceptible to contamination.
Proximity to Septic System: Ensure the well is located a safe distance from the septic system to prevent contamination. Local regulations typically specify a minimum separation distance (e.g., 50-100 feet).
4. Soil and Drainage Conditions:
Soil Type: The type of soil affects the septic system's efficiency. Sandy soils drain too quickly, while clay soils may not drain well enough. A percolation test can determine if the soil is suitable for a septic system.
Drainage and Landscape: Proper drainage around both the well and septic system is crucial. Poor drainage can lead to system failure and groundwater contamination.
5. Regulatory Compliance and Permits:
Local Regulations: Ensure the systems comply with local health and environmental regulations. Non-compliant systems may require costly upgrades or replacements.
Permits and Certifications: Verify that all necessary permits were obtained for the installation of both the well and septic systems. Lack of proper documentation can indicate potential problems or unpermitted work.
If you would like access to off-market and unlisted homes before they hit the market, text OFF-MARKET 717-467-4806
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