I'd get a couple of other estimates on the septic. Until you've done perc tests and know what type of soil you actually have, you won't know what type of septic is required. Here they can range from 5K to 50K, if one has really bad soil. A "ballpark" from some one who hasn't done soil tests is meaningless. Poor soil drainage or excessive drainage, both add to the costs of the system, which can, in some cases, require extensive engineering and earth moving. I agree that shocking the well (and also the entire water system) may lower your E. coli. This is a common practice, and though potential buyers are made nervous, most times it solves the problem. However, once you've done it and time or so, if you're stilling getting unsatisfactory test results, it's time to assume that the problem isn't due to an unused water system. I would then start to look at contamination issues. Surface contamination (run-off or lack of sealing at the top of the well) can be remedied fairly easily. Sub-surface contamination is much more difficult because the solution may not be on your property. In those circumstances drilling a new well would be in order. Here again, the costs can vary, a lot, and you won't know till you're done, so budget for the most expensive possibility. Another problem with deeply drilled wells is sometimes the water quality is not so hot, safe to drink, but hard or sulphurous. I'd be asking the neighbors how their water is. In my area (NY), wells must be 100 feet from the fartherest extension of the septic field and its expansion area, unless, due to topography or other factors, the septic is higher up a slope than the well. In that case you need 200 feet of separation. A well usually is described as having an "exclusion" zone around it in all directions. BTW, you may find that you have problems getting a mortgage without potable water and approved, functioning, sanitary facilities, and you may not even be able to close without them, even if you don't need a mortgage. Molly~

This may vary by region, but where I am if they want you to have drainage ditches, collection ponds, etc., it has to be reflected on your plot plan filed with the Registry of Deeds. For example, if I get my plot plan it doesn't show any detention ponds or ditches. If they want to put something on the land they retain owernship of (here they own about 4-12' in from the street, it's called "set back"), they can do that and maintain it, but I am only required to maintain what is on my property and is on the plan. They can't force me to add anything else at this point. Sorry, that's a bit long winded. Does it make sense? Do you have a copy of your plot plan? I would check that first. We have friends who built a house without checking theirs out and they were required to put a huge, ugly and dangerous detention pond right in their front yard. It was right there on the plan, which they should have looked at before they bought. Just because it is on THEIR map doesn't mean it's right. If it is on their map and not on the filed plot plan I would consult a real estate attorney.

Alice, I also have a well. I notice you have been quite gracious with your time and expertise on this site. I have tried to research the best I can, but I am not a handy person. I am considering either a Kinetico or Aqua Ox system. I don't understand all the ins and outs of each just some of the basics. My water has compensated iron of 9 grains - manganese and iron, no bacteria, 7 for PH, and a TDS of 243, no nitrates, no tannins. We use three bathrooms, 5 people. I know this is far from a complete picture, but would you favor one of these systems over the other and why? I have come to the end of my understanding and would so appreciate your insight. Thank you so very much. Desiree

Hi there! I cannot help you, but hoping others can. You’ll need to add some photos to show your problem areas. Also, please include other relevant information