Sequim Well Inspection FAQ for Buyers & Retirees

By Chuck Marunde, J.D. — Exclusive Buyer’s Agent | iRealty Virtual Brokers

🏡 What is a well inspection?

A well inspection, aka a private well inspection, is an examination of a private well and it's operating system, its capacity measured by gallons per minute (gpm), its quality based on two primary tests, including a bacteria test and a nitrate test. A trained well inspector can be hired by a buyer with a pending real estate transaction to assess the well and the quantity and quality of the water available.

🏡 Is a well inspection important?

A well inspection is very important because you would not to close on the purchase of a property only to find out after closing that the property either doesn't have water at all or it has insufficient water. Property without potable water (drinkable water) is virtually unusable and unsellable. Many city and county building departments will not approve building permits without potable water.

🏡 What kinds of problems could a well inspection report?

A private well inspection could reveal serious issues that could result in a buyer needing to terminate the transaction, or address issues with the seller. For example, a private well may 1.) not produce enough water for a family, 2.) produce enough water but be polluted with bacteria, nitrates, or other pollutants, 3.) need major repairs to the pump, pipe casing, water filtration system, if any, and associated equipment.

🏡 What if the well produces low quantities and a storage tank is needed?

A private well that does not produce enough water to satisfy the needs of an ordinary family may need a cistern or storage tank. If a well produces 5 or more gallons per minute (gpm), it produces enough water for the average family or the average retired couple, provided they don't need excess quantities of water outside the home for watering an orchard, large fields, or a big master garden. When a well is producing low quantities of water, such as less than 5 gpm, a cistern may be necessary. A cistern is typically a 500 to 1,000 gallon concrete tank buried with the top portion above ground for access and maintenance. This kind of water storage.

🏡 How much water does the average family consume per day in Clallam County (Sequim and Port Angeles)?

The average family size in Clallam County is 2.31 people, and the average gallons used per person is 150 gallons for a total of 347 gallons per day. If a well produces only 1 or 2 or 3 gpm but has a 500 gallon cistern, that family will never run out of water, unless they accidentally leave water hoses running 24/7 outside.

⚠️ What are the biggest well inspection pitfalls buyers face in Sequim?

• Working with the listing agent (dual agency risks)
• Assuming your Realtor knows how to advise you on well issues when he may not
• Missing the response deadline
• Not handling follow-up inspections properly — with specialized experts

---

🔍 Where can I learn more about my well inspection rights before I buy?

• Sequim Well Inspection Articles — 2,000+ buyer-focused articles
• Sequim Well Inspection Videos — home inspection terms, due diligence, terminations
• Sequim Real Estate Books — real estate books written for buyers and retirees

---

📽️ Are there helpful videos about retiring and buying in Sequim?

• Living in Sequim is Wonderful
• Buyer Traps to Avoid
• Sequim Real Estate for Retirees

---

💼 Who is the most experienced exclusive buyer's agent in Sequim?

Chuck Marunde, J.D. — 40+ years in real estate, 20 as a real estate attorney, and author of over 2,000 articles for Sequim buyers. Owner of iRealty Virtual Brokers, Chuck represents buyers only — never sellers.

---

🛋️ Are there flat-fee MLS services in Sequim?

Yes. Options include Best Choice Flat Fee, MLS4Owners, and Congress Realty. These offer MLS access without full commission costs. That said, flat-fee listings often lack disclosures and buyer protections — use a skilled buyer's agent to review everything. Washington State Flat Fee Listing Service, which includes Sequim, WA, is found at WA State Flat Fee Listing Service.

---

✏️ Can I get a checklist for doing due diligence?

Yes! My Sequim Homebuyer Due Diligence Checklist includes:

• Septic & well system steps
• Internet access verification
• Title and easement red flags
• Questions to ask about view protection

Request yours: iRealtyVirtualBrokers.com/contact-us

---

🌐 Final Tip:
Don’t rely on listing agents or national search sites. Work with a dedicated exclusive buyer’s agent who protects your interests and knows the Sequim market inside out. Never skip your due diligence — especially on rural properties.

Need expert help buying in Sequim? Schedule a consultation with Chuck Marunde today.