What Happens During a Well Inspection?

A well inspection can seem like a daunting prospect, especially if you're a new homeowner. Fortunately, professional well inspectors are experts in exploring the mysterious depths of your well and can help identify issues that could threaten your health or water supply.

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What Does a Well Inspection Include?

What a well inspection includes depends on several factors, including the age of the well, local environmental conditions and any concerns you may have about your well's condition. For example, your well inspector may recommend detailed water testing if you notice changes to your water's odor or taste. Common services include:

Visual Inspection

Most well inspections start with a visual evaluation of the well's components to detect issues such as corrosion, wear and tear and breakages. You should expect your inspector to check the following components:

• Well cap

• Well casing

• Electrical components

• Pump

• Wellhead

• Storage tank

• Vents

Inspectors also evaluate the area surrounding the well for conditions that could make water contamination more likely. For example, faulty septic systems, fertilizer use and industrial activity can increase the risk of well contamination.

Electrical and Mechanical Testing

Well inspectors usually test the mechanical and electrical components inside your well, such as the control box, pump and gauges. Testing these working parts enables inspectors to spot hidden issues that aren't necessarily obvious during a visual check.

A flow test is one of the most common checks carried out on domestic wells. It involves measuring the rate at which the pump draws water from your well to ensure it works efficiently enough to meet your household's needs. If it doesn't, your inspector will diagnose the cause of the low flow rate and recommend repairs to improve your water flow and pressure.

Water Testing

Testing water samples from your well allows inspectors to identify contaminants that could cause illness or impact your water's flavor. Basic water screening tells you whether common pollutants are present in your water supply, while more advanced tests identify a broader range of contaminants and their precise concentrations. Substances commonly detected by well water tests include:

• Bacteria, such as E. coli

• Heavy metals

• Nitrite

• Nitrate

• Sulfate

• Chloride

• Volatile organic compounds

• Silica

• Pesticides

• Radiological particles

Many tests also check your water's pH, mineral content and hardness. pH imbalances, excessive hardness and high mineral concentrations can cause buildup inside your pipes and appliances. This buildup increases the risk of blockages and corrosion, so identifying and treating the issue can help protect your plumbing system.

Some well inspection companies include water testing as standard, while others charge separately for testing services. If you're concerned about particular contaminants, it's worth checking which substances your company screens for.

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Septic System Inspection

It's common for homes with wells to also have septic systems. That's because wells are more common in rural areas where municipal connections are challenging or unavailable.

Problems with your septic system significantly increase the risk of well contamination. Many well inspection companies offer septic system checks, allowing you to have both systems inspected in the same visit. While some companies conduct a basic visual check of your septic system during a well inspection, you usually need to pay extra for a more comprehensive inspection.

Inspection Report

Following your well inspection, your inspector should provide a detailed report explaining their observations and the results of any tests carried out. The report may recommend repairs if your inspector diagnosed problems with your well. Many inspectors also provide maintenance advice to help you keep your well in good working order.

How Long Does a Well Inspection Take?

Most well inspections last between two and three hours. Wells deeper than 500 feet often take longer to inspect than shallower wells. Your inspection could also take longer if you have a submersible pump because these units are more challenging to access. Allow longer for your inspection if it includes additional services, such as a septic system check.

The time it takes to receive water testing results depends on the turnaround times at your testing laboratory. Most labs return test results within three to 10 days.