The USDA Loan Well Water Testing Requirements Explained
When working in rural communities, private wells can be common and understanding the USDA loan well water testing requirements is an important step in the process.
It’s easy to become confused by technical jargon and while facing topics like this along with the USDA Income Limits being increased, or finding eligible areas for the USDA Loan.
Rest assured. After this post, you will be well versed in the USDA Loan Well Water Requirements!
At USDA Loan Info, when we hear the question, “What are USDA Loan Well Water Testing Requirements?” we immediately provide the following explanation – we hope this helps!
Ok, let’s get into it.
USDA testing requirements for individual water systems that are owned and maintained by the homeowner, must meet the requirements of the local and/or State Health Authority codes.
USDA Loan Well Water Testing Guidelines:
Here is what’s required:
1. The water quality of the well must meet the requirements of the state or local authority.
2. If the state or local authority does not have specific requirements, the maximum contaminant levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency will apply.
3. Local health authority or a state certified laboratory must perform a water quality analysis.
4. Safe Water Drinking Act does not apply to private wells.
The well location for individual water supply systems must be measured to establish the distance from the septic system.
The separation distance between the well and septic systems must meet the SF Handbook HUD Handbook 4000.1. or be found acceptable by the local and/or State Health Authority.
Individual water systems/wells should be located on the subject property site.
If located on an adjacent property, evidence of water rights and recorded maintenance agreement must be retained in the lender’s permanent loan file as acceptance of the well as the primary source of water.
The USDA well water test results must meet or exceed the EPA minimum thresholds for lead, nitrates, nitrites, and coliform.
There are Basically 3 Components for USDA Well Water Tests
First, the four tests are conducted.
Secondly, there must be a list of the results.
Finally, the results must exceed the established thresholds.
Properties that require a water treatment system for the well water to meet the minimum potability standards are not considered eligible.
Typical well water test costs range from 50 to 100 dollars in most areas. Properties with public water do not require a water test.
The local health authority or a state certified laboratory must perform a water quality analysis.
