Are you close to buying a home in Central Virginia with a well? Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you understand the difference between a good inspection and a water test—your health and wallet could depend on it.
Many beautiful properties in our rural and suburban areas rely on a well for water. But how do you make sure the water you and your family will be drinking is safe and the system is reliable? That’s where well inspections and water testing come into play. Let’s dive into the differences between these two essential evaluations and why they’re critical when buying a home with a well.
Well Inspections
First, let’s talk about well inspections. This is a thorough checkup of the physical condition of the well’s equipment and structure. A professional well inspector looks at the well’s components, including the pump, casing, cap, and electrical system, to ensure everything is in good working order and properly maintained. They assess for any damages or wear and tear that could affect the well’s performance.
The buyer would pay for a good inspection and have it performed during their inspection time frame. If they find any problems with the well the buyer could ask for repairs during the inspection negotiation along with any other property repairs.
As an agent, I pay close attention to the area surrounding a well and the type of well when determining if a well inspection is necessary. For instance, if I see a bored well and a large tree nearby I would recommend a well inspection to my buyer because roots can do a lot of damage to the concrete casing of a well.
Well Water Testing
Now, onto well water testing. This process is specifically about assessing the quality of the water coming from the well. It’s not just about how the water tastes or looks; it’s about making sure it’s safe from contaminants. Water testing checks for bacteria, nitrates, lead, and sometimes other harmful substances that could affect your health. The type of well water testing ordered is dependent on your loan type. Some loan types only require a bacteria test whereas others require a full panel test with many elements tested.
The well water test is required to be performed by a third-party laboratory and in most instances is a seller-paid expense in the Central Virginia area. The lab report must be performed within 30 days of closing.
Why are both of these checks important? Imagine moving into your new home, only to find out that the water is undrinkable or that the well system needs expensive repairs. Conducting both a well inspection and water testing before buying can save you from unexpected costs and health risks.
As your real estate agent, I ensure that these inspections are coordinated and that you fully understand the results. This way, you can make an informed decision about buying a home with a well.
If you’re looking at homes in Central Virginia with wells, remember, that a well inspection checks the well’s structure, while water testing checks the water’s safety. Both are important for ensuring a safe and sound investment.
I’m Anita L Williamson, Associate Broker with James River Realty Group. If you have any questions or are ready to explore beautiful properties in this area contact me today, and let’s find your perfect home together. I’m here to Help You Establish Roots In Central Virginia.
