How do they inspect a well?

Author: Dr. Dorthy Tillman IV  |  Last update: Thursday, December 11, 2025

Your checkup should include: A flow test to determine system output, along with a check of the water level before and during pumping (if possible), pump motor performance (check amp load, grounding, and line voltage), and pressure tank and pressure switch contact.

What does a well inspection include?

A well inspection includes checking all of the well components, water pressure flow rate, water level before and during pumping, pump motor performance, pressure tank performance, and well water quality. Well inspectors measure the volume of water pumped and the rate at which the pump works.

What is the typical cost of a well inspection?

How Much Does a Well Inspection Cost? An average well inspection ranges from $300 to $500. This depends on the inspector's rates as well as the type of water tests they intend to conduct to check water quality.

How long do well inspections take?

Today, well inspections are quite a bit faster. Most inspections don't take more than a couple hours to complete. You won't have to take vacation time, miss work, or wait by the phone. From start to finish, it shouldn't take more than 1-2 hours for the inspection process to be finished.

What happens during a well test?

During well tests, reservoir fluids are produced to the separator at varying rates according to a predetermined schedule. These tests may take less than two days to evaluate a single well or months to evaluate reservoir extent. Test types include buildup, drawdown, falloff, injection and interference.

Perform a Well Inspection

How long does a well test take?

A typical inspection normally takes 1 ½ to 2 hours, and we run the water for up to an hour as needed.

Do home inspectors look at wells?

However, a home inspection may not cover every core component of the property. For example, for homes that rely on well water, the typical inspection does not include an analysis of the well or water filtration system.

How much does a well and septic cost?

Drilling a well costs between $5,000 and $10,000 on average, and the cost of a new septic system is between $3,400 and $11,500 on average. Expect to pay more if you have very deep or very shallow groundwater.

How many days does it take to dig a well?

On-site work can span 10-15 days: drilling is 3 or 4 days, and then pipe work and cables need to be installed, the submersible pump placed in the borehole and tested, pumping to clear the supply. Water is then sent to the laboratory to verify purity. This is likely to take two to three weeks in all.

What is the average cost to replace a well?

Installing a new well water system ranges from $1,775 to $30,000 or more, depending on the options you choose to power your well pump and the depth and diameter of the well. Drilling is the most expensive part, followed by the cost of the pump.

Where can I get my well water tested for free?

Some counties offer free well water testing, so check with your county first. If they don't, use this EPA website to find a list of state-certified laboratories in your area that do water testing, or contact your county or state health department or your State Certification Officer for assistance.

Who pays for a well inspection?

Homeowners with municipal water pay for their water service, which includes testing and maintenance fees. In a home with a private well, maintenance and water testing are the homeowner's responsibility.

What does a well check consist of?

Review your blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight and body mass index (BMI). Review your current health problems, as well as your medical, surgical, family and social histories. Review your current medications. Conduct a health risk assessment.

What maintenance is required for a well?

An annual well maintenance check, including a bacterial test, is recommended. Any source of drinking water should be checked any time there is a change in taste, odor or appearance, or anytime a water supply system is serviced.

Does homeowners insurance cover well and septic?

Your homeowners insurance should cover septic system damage as long as your policy includes coverage for other structures. Other structures often include the fence that surrounds your backyard and your swimming pool. You can file a claim if you can prove that the problem did not occur due to neglect on your part.

How long does a well last?

1. Does the home have a drilled well, and if so, when was it drilled? The average lifespan for a well is 30–50 years.

How long does a well inspection take?

A typical well inspection takes 1–2 hours.

The inspector should return a detailed well inspection report of all their findings within 1–3 days, though you may have to wait longer for your water test results.

Is a well inspection worth it?

Regular checkups of water wells are imperative to ensure the safety, functionality, and proper operation of a private water well. Naturally, you should leave this to licensed professionals who can conduct detailed water well inspections that help unveil potential issues, including health risks or poor water quality.

Who inspects well water?

To perform a well water quality test, a certified AmeriSpec inspector will come to your home and collect a sterile sample from your water source. They will typically collect water at the well and from your tap for comparison.

How much does it cost to have a well-tested?

A pro can offer a more accurate estimate for your well based on its type, depth, and other factors. The cost of a well inspection ranges from $150 to $900, with most people paying around $450. Your total cost will depend on factors like the type of well you have, its depth, and your location.

Do home inspectors check the well?

With some basic training and equipment, home inspectors can offer water quality testing as an ancillary service or as part of their standard home inspection. In many areas, mortgage lenders require water quality testing for properties with private wells.

How long does a well and septic last?

The average lifespan of a septic system is 15 to 40 years, but it can last longer if properly maintained! Think at the sink. Consider what you put into your toilet and sink and the impact it may have on your system.

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