The well: quality and quantity
- Water quality: test for bacteria at minimum. Many buyers also test for chemistry such as arsenic, uranium, manganese and hardness, which occur naturally in some parts of New Brunswick.
- Water quantity: ask about the well's depth, age and flow, and whether it has ever run low.
- Equipment: check the pump, pressure tank and any treatment system, and ask how old each one is.
The septic system
- Ask when it was last pumped and inspected, and for any records.
- Have a septic professional inspect the tank and field. A home inspection alone usually doesn't cover it.
- Watch for soggy ground, odours or very lush grass over the field.
Protect yourself in the offer
Make your offer conditional on satisfactory water testing and a septic inspection, with enough days to get results back. Review the seller's disclosure about the well and septic too. If something fails, you can negotiate a repair, a price change or walk away.
Other rural questions
- Is the road private or provincially maintained in winter?
- What heats the home: oil, electric, heat pump or wood? Ask for a year of bills.
- What internet service is available at the address?
Looking at country homes? See my guides to Hanwell, Lincoln and Geary and Gagetown.
General information only. Use qualified water and septic professionals.
Talk to Nick
Let's make a plan
Have a question about your own move? Call or text 506-304-9292, or send me a note and I'll reply within one business day.