When a home is connected to city water, buyers rarely spend much time thinking about the water system.

Private wells are different.

For homes served by a private well, buyers often have questions about water quality, system maintenance, and long-term reliability. Real estate agents don’t need to become well experts, but knowing which questions to ask can help transactions move more smoothly.

Matthew Phipps, owner of Phipps Water Solutions, believes that helping buyers understand a property’s water system early in the process builds confidence and reduces surprises later.

Has the Water Been Tested?

One of the first questions buyers often ask is about water quality.

According to Chase Mellon, Drilling Department Manager at Phipps Water Solutions, water should always be tested when purchasing or moving into a home with a private well.

Ask whether recent water quality testing has been completed and whether results are available for review.

Is There Maintenance History?

Documentation tells an important story.

Ask the seller if records are available for:

• Pump replacements
• Water testing
• Equipment repairs
• Filter changes
• Routine maintenance

Well-maintained systems often have a documented service history that provides additional confidence for buyers.

What Equipment Is Included?

Not every buyer understands how a private well system works.

Help them identify:

• Pressure tank
• Pump controls
• Water treatment equipment
• Filtration systems
• Wellhead location

Knowing what equipment exists makes it easier to answer questions during inspections.

Has the System Been Performing Normally?

Simple questions often provide valuable information.

Ask whether the homeowner has experienced:

• Low water pressure
• Water interruptions
• Changes in water quality
• Pump repairs
• Equipment concerns

If problems have occurred, ask how they were resolved.

Encourage Buyers to Learn the System

A private well is one of the most important systems on the property.

Encourage buyers to understand:

• Where the well breaker is located
• Where the control box is located
• Where the pressure tank is located
• How to access the home’s filtration system

Knowing these basics helps new homeowners feel more confident after moving in.

Work With Qualified Professionals

Real estate agents aren’t expected to diagnose well systems.

Instead, they can add value by encouraging buyers and sellers to work with experienced professionals when questions arise.

Whether it’s water testing, inspections, or evaluating equipment, bringing in knowledgeable specialists helps everyone make informed decisions.

Preparation Creates Better Transactions

Most well-related issues don’t become problems because the equipment is failing.

Instead, delays often happen because buyers don’t have enough information.

By asking a few thoughtful questions early in the transaction, agents can help reduce uncertainty and improve communication between buyers, sellers, inspectors, and contractors.