What You Need To Know About Utilities and Infrastructure with Land
Purchasing land can be an exciting venture; for many people, owning property is a dream. With this dream, there are so many things you can do with your land: building a dream home, starting a farm, or long-term investment for timber or mineral rights.
However, one crucial aspect that you must consider is the utilities and infrastructure that come with the land. Without understanding those two considerations, you can find yourself up a creek without a paddle.
Understanding these elements is essential to ensure your property meets your needs and expectations. To help, we have put together a quick guide that will walk you through the key factors related to utilities and infrastructure when you make your next land purchase.
Understanding Utilities And Infrastructure
Before we get started explaining everything that you need to know before you buy your next plot of land, it is important to be able to wrap your head around what considerations you need to make before choosing what to do with the property. To do this, we need to define the two most important factors: Utilities and infrastructure.
Utilities
Utilities typically include essential services such as water, gas, electricity, and sewage systems. Knowing what is already onsite versus what may or may not be available can go far when choosing whether to purchase a plot of land and what you can do with that property.
Infrastructure
The infrastructure around your land is what you use to access the property, as well as what supports the delivery of the utilities. This can be anything from roads, bridges, power lines, and communication systems.
Before purchasing land, it’s crucial to assess both utilities and infrastructure to determine how they will impact your use and enjoyment of the property.
Assessing Water Supply
One of the most important considerations when choosing a property is access to water. Without water, there is little that you can do. It is a fundamental utility for any property and can be supplied in a multitude of different ways.
Municipal Water Supply: In many developed areas, land is connected to a municipal or city water system. This provides a reliable and consistent source of water but may come with monthly fees and regulations.
Well Water: For properties in more rural or undeveloped areas, a private well may be necessary. Drilling a well can be costly, and the quality and quantity of water can vary. It’s important to test the water for contaminants and ensure the well meets your needs.
Rainwater Harvesting: In some regions, rainwater harvesting systems are used to collect and store rainwater for various uses. This can be an eco-friendly option but requires an investment in tanks and filtration systems.
Evaluating Waste Management - Sewer Or Septic
Waste management goes hand in hand with assessing your water needs. Proper waste management is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy environment, especially if you are building something on a property.
In urban areas, land may be connected to a municipal sewer system. This provides a reliable method for waste disposal but comes with monthly fees and regulations.
Most of what you will run into in rural areas such as Wilkes County and Ashe County will be septic systems. These systems require regular maintenance and can be costly to install. It is essential to have enough space on your property to put in a septic system,
How Does A Septic System Work
Septic systems, while varying in design, generally operate in a similar manner. Waste exits your home via pipes and enters the septic tank, where the treatment process begins.
Inside the tank, waste separates into three distinct layers:
Scum Layer: Lighter substances like oils and grease rise to the surface, forming the scum layer.
Liquid Effluent: The middle layer contains partially treated wastewater.
Sludge Layer: Heavier solids sink to the bottom, creating the sludge layer.
Over time, anaerobic bacteria work to decompose the organic matter in the sludge layer, reducing the volume of solids and aiding in waste breakdown. After separation, the liquid effluent exits the septic tank through a filter and flows into a drain field—a network of perforated pipes buried underground.
As the effluent moves through the drain field, it undergoes natural filtration and purification before returning to the groundwater. This process helps recycle water into the environment, sustaining the natural water cycle.
Electrical And Gas Services
Access to electricity is crucial for modern living. Natural gas or propane are also utilities to consider. With electricity, you need to determine whether the land is connected to the local power grid. If not, you will need to reach out to your local power company to see what is possible. In some cases, connecting power and water can be the most expensive part of a project due to the distance from a reliable source.
Natural gas is often supplied through pipelines, but in some areas, you may need to use propane or other alternatives. Verify the availability of gas lines and consider the costs of installation if necessary.
Infrastructure Considerations
Something that is often overlooked when looking at land is good infrastructure. Access to your potential property is vital, especially in areas where there can be harsh weather. Good infrastructure is vital for accessibility and convenience. Consider the following:
Road Access: Ensure the property has legal and practical access to public roads. Private roads may require maintenance agreements or easements. Check the condition of the road and any potential costs associated with improving access.
Communication Systems: Reliable communication is essential for modern living. Check the availability of internet and phone services. In rural areas, satellite or wireless internet may be your only option, so research the providers and speeds available.
Stormwater Management: Proper stormwater management helps prevent flooding and erosion. Assess the property’s drainage system and any potential risks of water damage. Consider the need for grading, retention ponds, or other measures to manage runoff.
When buying land, understanding utilities and infrastructure is essential to ensuring your property meets your needs and expectations. By assessing water supply, sewer and waste management, electrical and gas services, infrastructure, and regulatory considerations, you can make an informed decision and avoid potential challenges.
Working with professionals and budgeting for installation and ongoing costs will help ensure a smooth and successful land purchase. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can turn your land investment into a valuable and enjoyable asset.
Avoid Common Pitfalls By Hiring A Real Estate Agent
A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you identify properties with suitable utilities and infrastructure. They can also assist with negotiations and paperwork. Working with a real estate agent is a game changer, and if you are looking for one in Wilkes, Watauga, or Ashe County, I am here to help. My name is Matt Davis. I have extensive experience helping people like you find the right property investment.
With a deep knowledge of the local real estate market, I can offer tailored assistance to ensure that your land deals work out without a hitch. Whether you are looking to build your dream home, invest in property, or sell real estate, I am here to help you through the process. Contact me today to discuss your real estate needs! I look forward to working with you.