Wisconsin law does not require a well inspection or water test when a home is sold, though many lenders require a test in some cases. If someone is paid to inspect the well, it must be a DNR-licensed well driller or pump installer using DNR Form 3300-221, which covers coliform bacteria, nitrate and arsenic.
Updated October 2026
What the state requires
- No state law requires a well inspection or water test for a sale.
- A paid inspection must be done by a DNR-licensed well driller or pump installer, on DNR Form 3300-221.
- Drinking-water wells are tested for coliform bacteria and E. coli, nitrate and arsenic.
- A well unused for more than 90 days must be filled and sealed by a licensed pro.
- Wells must also be sealed before buildings on the property are torn down or new construction starts.
FHA and VA loans
This is general information, not lending advice. Your lender decides what your loan needs.
- A well test is not required on every FHA or VA loan. Many lenders require one when local rules or the appraiser call for it.
- FHA requires the water to meet state and local rules.
- FHA announced changes to how well distance rules apply to existing homes in 2026. Ask your lender for current requirements.
- Wisconsin’s setbacks (NR 812) are 25 feet from a well to a septic tank and 50 feet to a drainfield.
- VA loans follow local health rules, and a water test is good for 90 days.
- The State Lab of Hygiene sells a HUD/FHA-VA test package for $146.
Tips for buyers and sellers
- Look up the well construction report for depth, casing and age.
- Ask how old the pump and pressure tank are. See how long they last.
- Test early. A positive bacteria test needs time for disinfection and a retest.
- Walk the property for old wells, pits or pipes sticking out of the ground.
- A paid inspection costs roughly $275 to $450 (rough estimate). Ask which tests are included.
When you need a licensed professional
- A paid well inspection for the sale.
- Filling and sealing an unused well.
- Fixing problems the inspection finds, such as a short casing or a bad cap.
- Wisconsin rules require a DNR-licensed pump installer for pump and pressure-tank work on a drinking-water well; check with DNR if you’re unsure.
Related
- Where to test well water
- Coliform or E. coli in your well
- Find your well construction report
- Filling and sealing an old well
- What well work costs in Wisconsin
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