What Every Rural Tenant Should Know About Septic and Well Systems

Tenants living in rural rentals often rely on private wells for drinking water and septic systems for wastewater; systems that are easy to overlook. These systems are located on the property and require frequent maintenance compared to city utilities. In order to prevent health problems, property damage, and costly disputes, it is important for tenants to understand how they work and to know who is responsible for what.

Knowing Who is Responsible

Leases should clearly state who maintains the well and septic systems. Generally, property owners are responsible for inspections, replacements, repairs, and other major maintenance issues. Tenants, on the other hand. are responsible for using the systems properly. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendation, septic systems, although the schedule depends on household size and system use, generally be inspected every one to three years and pumped every three to five years. Before moving in, tenants should ask when the septic tank was last pumped. They should also ask if the well has been tested recently, and whether there are records of previous repairs.

Treating the Septic System Carefully

Not everything can fit down on the drain. Tenants should only flush human waste and toilet paper and avoid pouring grease, paint, medication, harsh chemicals, or other unsuitable materials down sinks or toilets. Excessive water use can also overload the system, so spreading laundry and other heavy water use throughout the week is helpful. It is also important to look for warning signs such as sewage odors, unusually wet or green areas around the septic field, slow drains, or sewage backing up into the house. Tenants should report these problems immediately and should not attempt to repair them.

Taking Well Water Seriously

Unlike public water systems, private wells are not monitored. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently recommended on its guidelines that testing well water should be at least once a year. Property owners must check for bacteria and other indicators. They also recommend for testing after flooding or noticeable changes in the water’s color, taste, or smell. A poorly maintained septic system can contaminate nearby groundwater. Research by the CDC found that about one in five sampled private wells had at least one chemical contaminant at a level that could be harmful for users.

Keeping Good Records and Speaking Up

Tenants should have copies of water-test results, repair records, septic inspections, and written communication with the landlord. If well water becomes questionable, tenants should use bottled water or another known-safe water source until it has been tested and local health officials provide guidance. It is very important for tenants to know their responsibilities and report problems before they escalate. A properly maintained well and septic system can work reliably for years.