Who pays for well inspection?

Author: Prof. Trey Metz III  |  Last update: Friday, February 6, 2026

Kreager explains the responsibility for paying for a well inspection during the homebuying process can be negotiated between the buyer and seller, but says, “It is usually the buyer.” This is typically part of a buyer's due diligence.

Who pays for a well inspection, buyer or seller?

In most states, requesting a well inspection is the responsibility of the buyer. And as a buyer, you won't want to skip the inspection. Getting a well inspection before you purchase a home can save you a lot of time, energy, and money.

How much does it cost for 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.

Does a seller or buyer pay for an inspection?

~ In California the buyer is responsible for property inspection. However sometimes the owner/seller will have a property inspection before sale and make this report available to any prospective buyer .

What is the biggest red flag in a home inspection?

10 Common Home Inspection Red Flags
  • Roof: Roof replacement can be one of the most costly repairs a homeowner encounters. ...
  • Foundation: The entire home rests on the foundation, and repairs aren't often easy or affordable. ...
  • Windows and Doors: Windows and doors can be replaced, but not without significant expense.

Who Pays For a Well & Septic Inspection?

What is the riskiest part of a home inspection?

Water damage can be the most expensive of all the major issues a home inspection may encounter because it can cause so much damage.

How many buyers back out after inspection?

According to some industry professionals, around 1 in 10 home sales fall through after the inspection. This statistic can vary regionally and depend on factors such as the age of the homes in the area. But nationally, about 10-15% of buyers decide to walk away from a purchase contract because of inspection findings.

Should buyers go to inspection?

While the buyer isn't required to attend the inspection, it is certainly in their best interest to do so. Being on-site during the inspection gives the buyer an opportunity to discuss the inspector's findings and to ask questions.

Does the seller get a copy of the home inspection?

In California, all residential purchases use the same Residential Purchase Contract, often called the RPA. Listing agents know in the RPA, that the seller and the seller's agent have a right to receive the report.

What is the purpose of closing day?

For homebuyers, closing is the day they officially take over ownership of the property and receive the keys. For sellers, closing is the day they'll receive proceeds from the sale. During the closing process, all parties complete many important tasks.

Who inspects a well?

In a home with a private well, maintenance and water testing are the homeowner's responsibility. To make sure you have safe water, you'll need to hire a home inspector who can check your well to confirm it's not contaminated.

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.

How much is a well check without insurance?

The cost of a primary care visit without insurance generally ranges from $150-$300 for a basic visit and averages $171 across major cities in the United States. For any additional services such as childhood and adult immunizations, lab testing, or prescriptions, there will be additional charges.

Does seller pay for repairs after inspection?

As we've discussed, the seller is not required to pay for such repairs, but it's in their best interest to do so if it means securing the sale. In some cases, the seller may put cash toward the repairs, while other sellers may choose to negotiate a lower sales price instead.

Does buyer or seller pay for a perc test?

Just as a buyer would pay for a survey, an appraisal, or any other assessment on the property, this cost would typically be paid by the buyer because they need to determine whether the soil is suitable for their intended use.

Do realtors pay for inspections?

Who Pays for a Home Inspection? With a traditional home inspection, the buyer pays for the home inspection. This is because the buyer is doing due diligence on their investment and needs this information to move forward with their purchase. For a seller inspection, the seller pays for the home inspection.

What if seller is not willing to negotiate after inspection?

If a seller still refuses to negotiate, it leaves you with three main options: Accept the house as is. Re-evaluate your position and take another shot at negotiating. Walk away from the deal.

Can the seller be present during an inspection?

However, the seller is not completely barred from their house during inspection. Some different reasons and instances encourage the sellers to attend the inspection.

Should I walk around with my home inspector?

Yes, it's a good idea to walk around with the home inspector during the inspection. It allows you to see any issues first-hand and ask questions about any concerns. Many home inspectors will also provide tips on maintaining and caring for your new home.

Why would a seller not want an inspection?

The main benefit of waiving the home inspection contingency is that the seller might like your offer better than an offer requiring a home inspection. In addition, buying a home without an inspection can be a much faster process because you do not have to wait on an inspector's report.

Can you bring people to a home inspection?

It's not unusual for moms, dads, or even friends to be present during a home inspection, but that doesn't mean it's the best idea. While it is nice to have their support and opinions, it can distract the home inspector.

Can you walk away from a home after an inspection?

Most of the time, the purchase contract will contain an inspection contingency, which allows you an "out" if, after completing your home inspection, you decide the house just isn't right for you. Read your purchase contract carefully and determine when the deadline is for your home inspections to be complete.

Do you lose earnest money if an inspection fails?

Generally, the earnest money is refundable if the deal falls through due to inspection issues. Example: A home inspection reveals major structural problems.

Who pays for a home inspection if the deal falls through?

Who pays for a home inspection if the deal falls through? If the buyer orders the inspection, they still pay for it if the deal falls through—even with an inspection contingency. A home inspection is an optional service, so the cost still falls on the buyer who orders it even with negative results.

Previous article
How do you make homemade scent blocker?
Next article
What is the cheapest time to use a washing machine?