Many homes in rural settings rely on water wells instead of municipal systems. While accessing groundwater with well drilling provides a virtually free source of the liquid—without the additives that municipal sources often feature, there are some steps you have to take before buying a house with a well. If your dream house includes this natural water source, here’s what you should know before moving forward with the sale.

What You Should Know Before Buying a House With a Water Well

1. Research County & State Regulations

Research what your county and state require in regards to well drilling and use, so you know how to care for the groundwater source in the future. State governments provide detailed guideline information, in addition to well search records, so you can look up your construction or sealing report.

2. Learn About Common Water Issues in the Area

Familiarize yourself with common groundwater issues in your potential home’s state or region. For example, recurring groundwater problems in Wisconsin include nitrates and pesticides. Nitrates from animal manure and fertilizer are some of the most common contaminants in the state’s groundwater, while several pesticides have also been found, among other pollutants.

3. Schedule an Inspection

Request a well inspection from a local drilling company to check the condition of physical components such as the pump and casing, as well as the surrounding soil. The soil should be graded to discourage contamination from fertilizer and other chemicals. Get water testing done, so you know exactly what contaminants are in the water, such as nitrates, pesticides, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, radon, and bacteria. Well testing also checks the water’s pH level, turbidity, hardness, and alkalinity.

4. Review Your Options if Contaminants Are Found

Discuss your options with your well inspection team if contaminants are discovered, such as implementing high-quality filters and water softeners that remove pollutants and minerals. Also, devise a testing schedule to keep your residential water system contaminant-free, and ensure the well area is safe from pollutants with regular soil grading and similar tactics. Maintain a testing and repair record that you can refer to in case of a problem.

Schedule a well inspection today with Luisier Drilling, the company that has been serving the Greater Oconto Falls, WI, region since 1936. These well drilling experts offer a 10-year guarantee on all wells and provide 24/7 emergency service. Call (920) 848-5239 today to schedule an appointment, or visit the family-owned well drilling company online for more service information.