Well Inspections

Well Testing & Inspections

Private Well Evaluation for Alabama Property Buyers

Know the flow rate, mechanical condition, and water quality of your well before you close.

Thousands of homes across Birmingham's surrounding counties rely on private wells for their water supply. Unlike municipal water, a private well is entirely the homeowner's responsibility — and a failing pump, pressure tank, or contaminated water source can be a significant and unexpected expense. Centsable Inspections evaluates the physical condition and performance of your well system so you know what you're buying.

What We Inspect

✓

Well Cap & Casing

Proper sealing of the well casing to prevent surface water contamination and pest intrusion.

✓

Pump Operation

Submersible or jet pump performance, cycling behavior, and signs of impending failure.

✓

Pressure Tank Condition

Pre-charge pressure, waterlogged tank indicators, and pressure switch settings.

✓

Flow Rate

Sustained flow rate testing to confirm adequate yield for household demand.

✓

Recovery Rate

How quickly the well recovers after draw-down — critical for high-demand households.

✓

Electrical Components

Wiring, disconnect, control box, and pressure switch condition and code compliance.

✓

Visible Pipe Condition

Exposed supply lines, connections, and pressure relief components.

✓

Well Location & Setbacks

Distance from septic systems, fuel tanks, and other potential contamination sources.

Your Well Is Your Water Supply — Know Its Condition

When you buy a property with a private well, you inherit full responsibility for it. A well pump replacement can run $1,500–$3,500. A new pressure tank is $500–$1,500. And if the well doesn't produce adequate flow for a family of four, the only solutions are expensive — deepening the well, drilling a new one, or installing a storage system. A well inspection before closing tells you the mechanical condition, flow performance, and water quality of the system, giving you the information to negotiate or walk away with confidence.

What to Expect

Schedule Well Testing

Well testing is typically scheduled alongside a home inspection. Let us know at booking if the property has a private well.

Physical Inspection

We inspect all accessible well components — casing, cap, pressure tank, pump controls, and electrical.

Flow Rate Testing

We run the well to measure sustained flow and recovery rate under demand conditions.

Water Sample Collection

We collect a water sample for laboratory testing of bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants (lab results returned separately).

Written Report

Complete findings on mechanical condition, flow performance, and water quality results when available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is water quality testing included?

We collect a water sample for laboratory analysis. Basic coliform bacteria and nitrate testing is standard; expanded panels (heavy metals, VOCs, etc.) are available for an additional fee.

What is a good flow rate for a residential well?

Most lenders and health departments require a minimum of 0.5–1.0 gallons per minute sustained. A family of four typically needs 3–5 GPM for comfortable daily use.

What if the well fails the test?

We document the findings fully. Depending on severity, buyers can request remediation, a price adjustment, or decline the property if the well cannot support household needs.

Do you serve rural properties outside Birmingham?

Yes. We serve Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Calhoun, Talladega counties and surrounding areas where private wells are common.

Ready to Schedule?

Birmingham's only CCMI-certified inspector · BBB A+ Accredited · 464+ Five-Star Reviews

Call 205-260-9997 Book Online