Well, septic and acreage on the West Plains: what to check

On acreage outside city limits you are your own water and sewer department. Before you buy on the West Plains, inspect the well and the septic system separately from the house, confirm legal access, check what was built with permits, and get an insurance quote early.

By Julie Herrmann · Updated November 2026

The well

Flow test. Have the well tested for how many gallons a minute it produces and how it recovers.
Water quality test. Test for bacteria and nitrates at a minimum, and ask the lab what else it recommends for the area. PFAS was found in Airway Heights city wells in 2017, so on the West Plains it is reasonable to ask about PFAS testing too.
Well log. The Washington Department of Ecology keeps well reports. Look up the depth and the date it was drilled.
Equipment. Ask the age of the pump and pressure tank.

The septic system

Inspection and pumping. Have it inspected by a licensed provider, and ask the seller for pumping records.
Records. Spokane Regional Health District keeps septic records. Ask for the permit and the as-built drawing so you know where the tank and drainfield are.
Bedrooms. A system is sized for a number of bedrooms. Make sure it matches the house as it is used today.

Access and boundaries

Confirm how you legally reach the property. If the road is private or shared, ask for the easement and the road maintenance agreement, and find out who plows it. If boundaries are unclear, order a survey.

Shops, barns and additions

Ask which buildings were permitted. Unpermitted work can affect insurance, appraisal and resale.

Insurance, before you are under contract

The West Plains has had two major wildfires in recent years. Get a quote first, and ask the agent about defensible space and anything that would change the premium.

Everyday things people forget

Check internet options at the address, cell signal inside the house, what the zoning allows for animals, and how far the nearest fire station is.

Tell your lender early

Some loans have their own requirements for wells, septic systems and acreage. Tell me what you are looking at before you write an offer so there are no surprises at appraisal. Your lender confirms what applies.