Determine if the property has an existing septic system and its typeCriticalCommon types: conventional (gravity), pressure distribution, mound, aerobic treatment unit (ATU), and engineered systems. Type affects maintenance costs and permit requirements.
Request septic system records from the county health departmentCriticalRecords should include installation date, system type, tank size, drain field location, and any repair history. Systems older than 25-30 years may need replacement.
Get a septic inspection before purchase ($300-$600)CriticalA full inspection includes tank pumping, dye test, and drain field assessment. Never skip this — a failed system costs $10,000-$50,000+ to replace.
Check required separation distances from wells, streams, and property linesMost codes require 50-100 feet between septic systems and wells, 50+ feet from streams, and 5-10 feet from property lines. These distances limit where you can build.
Verify septic system capacity matches your intended useSystem capacity is based on bedrooms (not bathrooms). Adding bedrooms may require system expansion or replacement. ADUs may need separate systems.
If no septic exists, get a perc test and soil evaluation ($300-$1,000)CriticalPerc tests determine if soil can absorb effluent. Failed perc tests may make the property unbuildable or require expensive engineered systems ($20,000-$60,000+).

Determine if the property has an existing well and its specificationsCriticalKey specs: depth, diameter, casing material, yield (gallons per minute), static water level, and age. Well logs may be available from the state geological survey.
Get a comprehensive water quality test ($200-$500)CriticalTest for bacteria (coliform, E. coli), nitrates, pH, hardness, iron, manganese, and any locally relevant contaminants (arsenic, radon, fluoride, PFAS).
Test well yield/flow rate to ensure adequate supplyCriticalMinimum acceptable yield is typically 3-5 GPM for a single-family home. A 4-hour pump test is the most reliable method ($500-$1,000).
Check well construction meets current code requirementsModern well standards require proper casing, grouting, cap, and setbacks. Older wells may be non-compliant and require upgrading.
Verify required setback distances from septic systems and property linesWells must be 50-200 feet from septic systems depending on jurisdiction. Verify the well is properly separated from all contamination sources.
Research the local aquifer and any groundwater issues in the areaContact your state's geological survey for aquifer data. Some areas face declining water tables, drought restrictions, or known contamination.

Research drilling costs for a new well in the area ($5,000-$30,000+)Costs vary dramatically by region and depth. Contact 2-3 local well drillers for estimates. Ask about typical depths and yields in the area.
Check if the county requires a well permit and any restrictionsMost states require well construction permits. Some areas have well drilling moratoriums or restrict new wells due to aquifer depletion.
Determine septic system options based on soil conditionsIf conventional systems aren't feasible, options include mound systems ($15,000-$30,000), ATUs ($10,000-$20,000), or constructed wetlands.
Budget for total water/wastewater infrastructure installationCriticalTotal costs for well + septic on a new property: $15,000-$60,000+ depending on conditions. This is a major expense often underestimated by rural property buyers.

Understand septic pumping schedule and costsTypical pumping: every 3-5 years ($300-$600). Aerobic systems may need annual service ($200-$400/year). Keep a maintenance log.
Plan for annual water quality testingEPA recommends testing private well water annually for bacteria and nitrates at minimum. Budget $100-$300/year.
Budget for eventual system replacementSeptic systems last 20-40 years; wells last 25-50+ years. Budget for replacement as part of long-term property ownership costs.

Septic & Well System Checklist