Private Well Inspection

SMR Inspection Services provides private well inspections for rural and acreage properties throughout Western Colorado. A well inspection helps buyers, sellers, and property owners understand the condition, performance, and water quality of a private water supply system.

Because private wells are not monitored by public utilities, a professional inspection is an essential part of evaluating a property that relies on a well for its primary water source.

What Is a Private Well Inspection?

A private well inspection is a non-invasive evaluation of a property’s well system, focusing on water quality, water quantity, and the visible condition of system components. The inspection provides objective information to help determine whether the well can adequately and safely serve the home.

Well inspections are most commonly performed:

During real estate transactions
When purchasing rural or off-grid properties
As part of routine system evaluation or maintenance planning

When Is a Well Inspection Recommended?

A well inspection is strongly recommended when:

Purchasing a home with a private well
Buying land or rural property with an existing well
Water quality or pressure concerns are present
The well’s age, depth, or service history is unknown

In most real estate transactions, the buyer is responsible for requesting the well inspection. Identifying issues prior to closing allows buyers to better evaluate the property or factor potential costs into negotiations.

What Is Included in a Well Inspection?

Water Quality (Potability) Testing

Water quality testing evaluates selected characteristics of the water supply by collecting a sample from an interior tap and submitting it to a certified laboratory for analysis.

Testing may include evaluation of:

pH, hardness, alkalinity, and turbidity
Common minerals such as iron, calcium, manganese, copper, fluoride, and chloride
Coliform bacteria
Selected volatile organic compounds (VOCs), when requested

Laboratory results identify measured levels and reference standards for comparison. Water testing provides objective data but does not diagnose health conditions.

Water Quantity & System Performance

Water quantity testing evaluates whether the well can supply sufficient water for normal household use. This portion of the inspection may include:

Flow rate testing (gallons per minute)
Evaluation of pressure tank operation
Observation of visible system components
Review of available well information (when provided)

Adequate water supply and pressure are essential for daily household activities such as bathing, cooking, and laundry.

Private Wells & Ongoing Maintenance

Private wells should be inspected and tested periodically, not just at the time of purchase. Annual or routine testing helps identify changes in water quality or system performance before problems develop.

Because groundwater conditions vary by location, homeowners are encouraged to stay informed about regional water concerns. Agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency provide general guidance on private well care and water safety.

Clear, Practical Reporting

Following the inspection, clients receive:

Laboratory water quality results
Documentation of observed system conditions
Clear explanations of findings and limitations

Reports are designed to support real estate transactions, maintenance planning, and informed decision-making.

Schedule a Private Well Inspection

If you are purchasing or owning a property with a private well in Western Colorado, contact SMR Inspection Services to discuss well inspection options, testing scope, and scheduling.