How Much Does a Well Inspection Cost?
Published February 1, 2026 | 8 min read
Whether you're buying a home with a private well, selling your property, or want to ensure your existing well is in good condition, a professional well inspection provides crucial information. The typical cost for a well inspection ranges from $300 to $800, depending on the inspection type and testing included. Here's what you need to know about pricing and what to expect.
Well Inspection Cost Overview
Well inspection costs vary based on the level of evaluation needed and the water quality testing included. Understanding your options helps you choose the right inspection for your situation.
Typical Well Inspection Costs
- Basic Inspection: $300 - $400
- Standard Inspection (with water testing): $400 - $550
- Comprehensive Inspection: $550 - $800
- Camera/Video Inspection (add-on): $200 - $400
- Extended Water Quality Panel (add-on): $150 - $350
*Prices include inspection, testing, and written report
Types of Well Inspections
Basic Well Inspection ($300-$400)
A basic inspection provides a visual assessment and functional testing:
- Wellhead and cap inspection
- Visible equipment assessment
- Pressure tank and switch testing
- Flow rate measurement
- Basic water appearance evaluation
- Written summary report
Standard Inspection ($400-$550)
The most common choice for home buyers, includes basic inspection plus:
- Coliform bacteria testing
- Nitrate/nitrite testing
- pH and hardness testing
- Recovery rate assessment
- Pump amp draw measurement
- Detailed written report with recommendations
Comprehensive Inspection ($550-$800)
Thorough evaluation for concerned buyers or sellers, includes standard inspection plus:
- Extended water quality panel (minerals, metals)
- Static water level measurement
- Drawdown testing
- Well record research
- Equipment age and condition assessment
- Estimated remaining equipment life
- Comprehensive report with cost estimates for any repairs
What's Included in a Well Inspection
Wellhead Assessment
- Well cap/seal condition and security
- Casing condition above ground
- Proper grade and drainage away from well
- Distance from potential contamination sources
- Electrical connections and wiring
Equipment Evaluation
- Pressure tank condition and pre-charge
- Pressure switch operation
- Control box/pump starter inspection
- Pump amp draw (electrical consumption)
- Piping and valve condition
Performance Testing
- Flow rate measurement (gallons per minute)
- Pressure range verification
- Recovery rate (how quickly the well refills)
- Pump cycling frequency
Water Quality Testing
- Always included: Coliform bacteria, nitrates, pH
- Often included: Hardness, TDS, iron, manganese
- Optional/add-on: Arsenic, lead, uranium, VOCs, pesticides
Learn more about what to test for in our complete well water testing guide.
DIY vs Professional Inspection
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50-$150 (test kits only) | $300-$800 |
| Equipment Assessment | Limited to visual | Complete evaluation |
| Flow Rate Testing | Basic bucket test | Calibrated equipment |
| Water Testing | Mail-in kits | Certified lab testing |
| Written Report | No | Detailed documentation |
| Real Estate Accepted | Usually not | Yes |
When DIY Testing Works
- Annual water quality screening on your own well
- Quick check between professional inspections
- Monitoring known water quality issues
When You Need Professional Inspection
- Buying or selling a property
- Applying for financing (lenders often require it)
- Suspected equipment problems
- Water quality changes
- After nearby construction or drilling
- Documentation for legal purposes
Well Inspection for Home Buyers
If you're buying a home with a private well, inspection is essential. Here's what to consider:
What Buyers Should Request
- Standard or comprehensive inspection at minimum
- Extended water testing if in agricultural or industrial area
- Camera inspection if well is older or seller has no records
- Copy of well completion report if available
Red Flags in Inspection Reports
- Low flow rate (less than 3-5 GPM for residential)
- Bacteria present in water sample
- High nitrates (above 10 mg/L)
- Damaged or missing well cap
- Corroded casing or equipment
- No recovery rate or slow recovery
- Missing well records/unknown depth
Read our complete guide on buying a home with a private well for more information.
How Often Should You Get an Inspection?
Recommended Inspection Schedule
- Annual: Water quality testing (bacteria, nitrates)
- Every 3-5 years: Full system inspection
- When buying/selling: Comprehensive inspection
- After flooding: Water quality testing immediately
- If problems noticed: Inspection as soon as possible
Factors That Affect Inspection Cost
- Location: Remote properties may have travel fees
- Well depth: Deeper wells may require additional equipment
- Testing included: More comprehensive water testing adds cost
- Add-on services: Camera inspection, extended drawdown testing
- Urgency: Rush inspections for real estate transactions may cost more
- Report requirements: Lender-specific or detailed reports may add fees
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a well inspection cost?
A standard well inspection costs between $300 and $500, including visual assessment, flow rate testing, and basic water quality screening. Comprehensive inspections with extended water testing and camera inspection range from $500 to $800.
What does a well inspection include?
A standard well inspection includes visual assessment of wellhead and equipment, flow rate measurement, pressure system testing, basic water quality tests (bacteria, nitrates), and a written report with findings and recommendations.
Do I need a well inspection when buying a home?
Yes, a well inspection is highly recommended when buying a home with a private well. It reveals the well's condition, production capacity, and water quality—information that could save you thousands in unexpected repairs after purchase.
How often should a well be inspected?
Wells should be professionally inspected at least every 3-5 years for routine maintenance, annually for water quality testing, and always before buying or selling a property. More frequent inspections are recommended if you notice changes in water quality or system performance.
Schedule Your Well Inspection
Get peace of mind with a professional well inspection. Whether you're buying, selling, or just want to know your well's condition, we provide thorough inspections with clear, detailed reports. Fast turnaround for real estate transactions.