When buying a property in a rural area, it isn’t unusual for your potential home to rely on a well for its water supply. While a water well is generally an advantage to a property, it is a good idea to schedule a well inspection before you close on the house. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering a home with a water well.

What Homebuyers Should Look for During a Well Inspection

1. Location

Wells are required to be at least 100 feet away from septic tanks and manure to reduce the risk of contamination. They should also be at least 25 feet away from roadways, and 50 feet from stables. Wells should be placed on an uphill or level slope—never in a place where contaminants flow downhill. Know where the water well is located and ensure it meets these standards.

2. Water Quality

The presence of harmful bacteria or volatile organic compounds in the well water could pose a health risk to your family. While well repairs can often resolve water quality problems, you should avoid having to deal with the problems yourself. Test the water if you can and discuss with the seller any issues they’ve had with water quality.

3. Flow Rate & Well Capacity

The well inspection should also check that the well provides enough water for your needs. Ensure that the well can store enough water to satisfy your family’s needs. Also, check the flow rate to see how much water is pumped into your house. If the house becomes your primary residence, the flow rate should be 6 to 12 gallons per minute. Some families may need even larger wells or stronger flow rates, depending on water consumption habits.

Whether you need to schedule a well inspection or new water well drilling, you can rely on Earnest Well Drilling Inc in Milford, NE. Serving the Milford and Lincoln areas for over 90 years, these licensed and certified well drillers will address the unique needs of your property to find the best solution available. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (402) 761-2281.