Private Well Inspections and Water Testing for Colorado Buyers

By David Parks · eXp Realty · The Apollo Group · 2 min read

The Short Answer

A private well supplies a home’s drinking water independently of a city system. Buyers should test both the well’s output and the water’s quality before closing.

Private Well Inspections and Water Testing for Colorado Buyers
Illustration by David Parks

What a well inspection covers

A well professional checks the pump, pressure tank, casing, and wellhead, and measures flow in gallons per minute. Flow matters because it determines how much water the household can use at once.

Water quality testing

Labs commonly test for coliform bacteria and E. coli, nitrates, and often other items like arsenic, uranium, iron, and hardness. What to test for can vary by area, so ask the lab or local health department.

Quick Poll

Have you ever dealt with a well water quality problem?

Questions to ask the seller

Why it matters

Wells in some mountain and rural areas can be affected by drought or seasonal change. Understand the legal right to use the well and any water rights that may apply, which a title company or attorney can help confirm.

Key Takeaways
  • What a well inspection covers: A well professional checks the pump, pressure tank, casing, and wellhead, and measures flow in gallons per minute.
  • Water quality testing: Labs commonly test for coliform bacteria and E.
  • Questions to ask the seller: How old is the well, and where are the permit records?
  • Why it matters: Wells in some mountain and rural areas can be affected by drought or seasonal change.

This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial or inspection advice. Every home and situation is different, so confirm details with a licensed inspector, lender, attorney or tax professional.

David Parks
About David Parks

David is a Greater Denver real estate advisor with eXp Realty and The Apollo Group (Colorado broker license FA100103211). He has closed more than $55 million in volume, earned eXp Icon status in 2025, and holds a 5.0 rating on Zillow from 27 verified reviews.

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