If you are looking at rural real estate, you just might find a beautiful piece of property that is serviced by a well. As with any aspect of the home you are considering buying, it's prudent to know as much as you can about the well.

Inquire with the previous owners about the well's history: when was it drilled, what is its depth, how are the pump and wellhead functioning, when was the water last tested, what was it tested for and what were the results, also, is there a filtration system in place? There should be a well log that contains a record of who drilled the well, who commissioned it (ie, the owner at the time) it's exact location and other relevant details.

If the well water quality hasn't been tested recently, it is important that a qualified professional do so before you move too far along in the buying process. The water should be tested both for biological contaminants, such as parasites, and environmental contaminants, which can be anything from nitrogen from fertilizers to radon leaching from the ground, to sea water if the well is close to the ocean.

The local health department should have a record of previous test results for the well, assuming it has been tested before. Along with test results, the health department will be able to tell you if the well complies with state regulations, such as being well away from potential pollution sources. Ideally, a well should be situated on silty or clay-loam soil, and at least 20 feet deep.

Check the pump and all mechanical aspects of the well visually yourself. If you are unsure about what you see, ask a professional to inspect them for you. In addition to the mechanics, check the condition of the well casing and cap. The casing should be un-cracked, and the cap at least a foot above the ground. Also, find out how much water can be pumped from the well. This may change seasonally, so inquire about the changes.

If your well is a shallow well, it is more susceptible to contamination from surface water. Surface water hasn't been filtered through the earth, and therefore is more likely to contain impurities. A shallow well is suitable for irrigation purposes, but for drinking water you can trust, a deeper, drilled well that is between 20-50 feet, and uphill or at least 100 feet away from any potential contamination sources such as a septic tank, animal pen,or oil tank is ideal.

While checking the safety of a well system can seem complicated, once you've verified that the water is safe and understand how to maintain your well, it can be a rewarding source of fresh, clean water. You will know exactly what is in your water, and while maintenance can cost some, you won't be paying a city for the water you use.

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Marci McFarland is a Sarasota real estate agent with a broad professional approach. Her unique insight into the various lifestyle requirements of her clients, combined with an intimate knowledge of her service area including Downtown Sarasota real estate, make her an ideal choice for families and investors alike.