A question that I get often is what are the FHA requirements for distances for properties with well & septic systems? FHA is clear on their guidelines for distances for properties that have a well & septic system, but FHA also will make exceptions to their guidelines in certain circumstances if the distances are within the local and State requirements.
For example FHA guidelines require that a well be:
- A minimum of 50 feet from a septic tank
- A minimum of 100 feet from the drain/leach fields
- A minimum of 10 feet from any property line
But should State or local regulation allow for distances that are less than the FHA guidelines the property may be considered for an exception. In order to obtain the exception the Lender must provide evidence that the property is in compliance with the State and local distance requirements and meets the following conditions:
- The State and local distances are not less than 75 feet between the well and drain/leach fields
- The well is not within 10 feet of a roadway
- The well is not within 10 feet of another single-family residential property
- The well is not within 10 feet of a commercial, industrial, or multifamily building
Acceptable evidence to obtain an exception to the FHA well & septic system distance requirements are:
An appraisal clearly showing the location of the well and septic system on a site sketch showing the distances between the two.
- The Underwriter obtains from a qualified party (well or septic company for example) satisfactory evidence that the distance requirements between the two systems, and between the well and property lines have been met.
These guidelines are clear, but they still tend to create confusion especially with older properties before local Health Department guidelines were in place. I hope the information above at least provides a bases of basic understanding of what will have to be provided and met on properties that have a well and septic system, and FHA financing is being sought.
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Who To Call For Your Mortgage Needs In Connecticut:
George Souto NMLS# 65149 is a Loan Officer who can assist you with all your FHA, CHFA, and Conventional mortgage needs in Connecticut. George resides in Middlesex County which includes Middletown, Middlefield, Durham, Cromwell, Portland, Higganum, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester, Deep River, and Essex. George can be contacted at (860) 573-1308 gsouto@mccuemortgage.com, or visit my McCue Mortgage Homepage.
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