It is these private systems that often have the most problems. To compound the problem, small systems don't always have the money needed to make major repairs. The challenge for the homebuyer is learning whether the water supplied to the home is actually fit to drink. The system operator may not reveal this information unless under a State or court order. Large municipal systems are usually reliable, but it never hurts to ask, particularly if you are moving into an unfamiliar area.
Private systems deserve a great deal of research.
The best place to find this information is the State agency responsible for monitoring water supplies used for residential developments. If you take no other advice, you would be wise to determine the quality of your drinking water, particularly if you plan on living in the country where the system is private and drain fields or other individual wastewater systems are in use. He is President and Owner of Centerline, an engineering consulting firm. There's even a free weekly email newsletter. All rights reserved unless specifically noted.