What are USDA and FHA distance requirements for well and septic?
What are the required distances for well and septic tanks on USDA and FHA loans?
When working in rural communities, having a property that is on a private well can be common. However, there are critical measurements that need to be accounted for when determining minimum property requirements.
In today’s video tip I will walk you through the USDA and FHA distance requirements for well and septic along with what to look out for on your next transaction.
And if you have not yet done so, feel free to download our newest “USDA Blueprint for Success” with the link below. This free guide is designed to help walk you through the USDA process step-by-step and is a great educational resource for both homebuyers and their Realtors:
USDA and FHA distance requirements for well and septic
As a quick review, USDA loans follow FHA HUD Handbook guidelines for minimum property requirements, so for today’s video the distances and measurements will be applicable to both FHA and USDA home loans.
Also, our content today will be for existing properties with private wells and not for new construction homes or those that are on a public water system.
HUD Handbook guidelines require the following minimum distance requirements between wells and sources of pollution for existing construction:
1. 10 feet from the property line
2. 50 feet from the septic tank
3. 100 feet from the septic tank drain field, but
4. This may be reduced to 75 feet if allowed by local authority
5. If the subject Property line is adjacent to residential Property then local well distance requirements prevail.
However, if the subject Property is adjacent to non-residential Property or roadway, there needs to be a separation distance of at least 10 feet from the property line.
Distance requirements of the local authority will prevail if greater than what is stated in the HUD Handbook.
Now, since these distances are not customarily calculated until the sales contract is received and the loan application is in process, please let us know upfront if you have any concerns so we can review and advise.
While properties with wells do have extra steps, I always say don’t be scared – be aware, because knowledge is power.
Remember, do not let the USDA and FHA distance requirements for well and septic overwhelm you, because that is what we are here for.
As an Approved USDA Lender we have the experience and expertise to help open the door to homeownership.
Just call or email to discuss your scenario and let us show you the “Metroplex” difference!
(800) 806-9836 Ext. 280
SeanS@MPLX.org
Here is the link for our “USDA Blueprint for Success“:
