What Veterans Need to Know About VA Loan Requirements for Well Water and Septic Systems in Wisconsin

At Integrity Homes, we know buying a home with a VA loan can sometimes feel overwhelming — especially when private wells and septic systems are involved. Veterans deserve clear, accurate information to avoid any surprises during the homebuying process.

Recently, I sat down with Mike Schroeder from Guaranteed Rate, a VA loan expert, to dig into exactly what veterans need to know about water and septic requirements here in Wisconsin.

Here's what we learned — and how you can stay ahead of the process.

VA Loan Requirements for Private Wells in Wisconsin

When you're buying a home with a VA loan that includes a private well, you must complete a water test. However, the requirements aren't always straightforward.

Mike Schroeder explained, "The VA requires that the water quality meets local health standards — but Wisconsin is tricky. The state doesn't have strict private well water quality laws. So the VA defaults to EPA standards instead."

In Wisconsin, that usually means your water test must check for:

• Nitrates and Nitrites (Seperated)

• Coliform bacteria (including E. coli)

• Lead levels

• (In some cases) pH balance, depending on the lender

“If the water passes these safety tests, you're good to go,” Mike added. "But if anything shows up, the well needs to be treated and retested before the VA will approve the loan."

Pro Tip: The Well, Water, and Septic tests ARE NOT automatically included in the Wisconsin residential offer to purchase. What this means is that your Realtor must negotiate them into the contract BEFORE your offer is accepted. Your Realtor must also clearly state what the water is being tested for.  If this is not correctly, you may  not be authorized (allowed) to test the water, or negotiate if these things are not spot on. Having a Realtor who knows VA Loans is always critical, but even more so when dealing with Well, Water, and Septic.  

VA Loan Requirements for Septic Systems in Wisconsin

When it comes to septic systems, the VA's goal is simple: make sure the home is safe, sanitary, and structurally sound.

Typically, for homes with a septic system:

• A septic inspection may be required, but not always unless the appraiser notes a concern.

• If requested, a licensed inspector must confirm the septic system is functioning properly.

• Major repairs or replacements must be addressed before closing if the system fails inspection.

Mike explained, "If you're buying a home with an older septic system in Dane County or surrounding areas, it's smart to proactively get it inspected. Even if the VA doesn't require it, it protects you as the buyer."

In Wisconsin, well and septic inspections are often bundled when working with VA buyers to streamline the process and avoid surprises later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

According to Mike and John, here are a few mistakes veterans should watch out for:

• Skipping the full water test: Some buyers assume a basic bacteria test is enough — but VA requires full EPA-standard tests.

• Waiting until the last minute: Water and septic tests can take three weeks to complete. Delays could push back your closing date.

• Not budgeting for fixes: If a well fails its test, treatments (like chlorination or filtration systems) can add unexpected costs.

Mike’s Advice: "If you're looking at a property with a well and septic, plan early. Talk to your lender and Realtor about getting those inspections done right away."

Buying in Wisconsin? Here's How Integrity Homes Can Help

As a veteran-owned real estate team, Integrity Homes knows exactly what it takes to get VA buyers across the finish line.

When you work with us, we:

• Coordinate inspections to meet VA loan standards

• Recommend trusted local inspectors for wells and septic systems

• Communicate closely with your lender to ensure every requirement is met

• Help you avoid costly mistakes and surprises

Your mission is to find a great home. Our mission is to make it easier for you.

If you're planning to buy with a VA loan in Madison, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, DeForest, or anywhere in South Central Wisconsin, we’re here to serve you every step of the way.

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🏡 John Reuter, Realtor | USAF (Ret.) 📞 Call/Text: 608-669-4226 📧 john@integrityhomeswi.com

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