A "well inspection" can mean different things. Ask each professional up front whether they look at the well itself, the pump and pressure system, the water (and which tests), and the septic system, and what they put in writing. EPA says to make sure any well driller or pump installer you hire is bonded and insured and, if your state requires it, licensed and certified.
| Item | What the guidance says | Question to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Well casing | EPA: look for cracked, corroded, or damaged casing; don't cut the casing off below the land surface. NYSDOH's checklist: casing free of holes and cracks, extending at least 12 inches above the ground. | "Is the casing intact, and how far above grade does it extend?" |
| Well cap | EPA: look for a broken or missing cap. NYSDOH: cap securely attached, free of holes and cracks, with a screened vent, sealed with an O-ring or gasket. NYSDOH also says not to remove the cap except for maintenance. | "Is the cap a sealed, vermin-proof type, and is it secure?" |
| Surface seal and grading | EPA: look for settling and cracking of surface seals, and slope the ground so runoff drains away from the well. NYSDOH: no pooled water or debris around the casing. | "Does water drain away from the well? Any settling at the seal?" |
| Pressure system | NYSDOH's checklist: pressure gauge working, with pressure typically between 30 and 60 psi; valves exercised. | "Did you check the pressure tank, switch, and gauge?" |
| Nearby hazards | EPA: check that activities on or near the property are a safe distance from the well (ask your local health department), and check fuel storage tanks. NYSDOH: no household hazardous materials or animal wastes within 100 feet of the casing. | "What's within 100 feet: fuel tanks, chemicals, animals, the septic system?" |
| Septic system | EPA: pump and inspect septic systems as often as your local health department recommends. NYSDOH (in New York): every 2–3 years. | "When was the septic last inspected and pumped? Is there a record?" |
| Water quality | EPA: test every year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH, at a certified lab. A visual inspection isn't a water test. | "Which lab tests are included, and is the lab state-certified?" |
| Records | EPA and NYSDOH: keep records of well maintenance and water testing. | "Can I see past test results and repair, disinfection, or maintenance records?" |
NYSDOH's checklist is one state's example (New York). Other states' requirements differ, so check your state private-well program.
NYSDOH recommends having a registered well contractor inspect your well at least once a year, and checking the casing, cap, and well area yourself at least annually. EPA says to periodically inspect the exposed parts of the well. Both say to test the water regularly; see which tests to ask about and what testing costs.
Safety: NYSDOH warns not to exceed your experience. If you're unsure, contact a well driller, plumber, or electrician, and shut off power before any work near the well.
Buying a house with a well? The Well Buyer's Checklist has walk-around notes to take to your inspector or well contractor, a 13-question seller worksheet, and EPA's testing table. See also questions to ask and buying a house with a well.
Get the Well Buyer's Checklist (PDF), $9
Instant download. 14-day no-questions refund. Printable checklist (PDF), Edition 1.0, US.