Perc test
A test that measures how fast water drains through the soil, to see whether the land can support a septic system. Standard step before building in rural areas without sewer.
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Where this comes up: getting ready
Part 1 of 4
Why a seller cares
A perc test says whether land can take a septic system, and a buyer of a lot or a rural home without one may ask for it. A home with a working septic usually does not need one; a vacant lot almost always does.
Part 2 of 4
A simple example
You are selling five acres with no sewer. The buyer's offer is contingent on a perc test, done by the county health department.
| What the test finds | What follows |
|---|---|
| The soil drains at an acceptable rate | A septic permit is possible; the sale proceeds |
| The soil drains too slowly | A different system, an engineered one, or a buyer who walks |
| The home already has a working septic | A perc test is rarely asked for; a septic inspection is |
A perc test is about what can be built. A septic inspection is about what already is.
Part 3 of 4
What people get wrong
That a failed perc test means the land is worthless. It means a standard septic will not work there, and there are other kinds.
Part 4 of 4 · where to read next
Where it appears in the sale
What a definition is, and what it isn't
Keighbor is a software company, not a law firm, brokerage, or tax adviser. This is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or real estate advice about your sale. Your situation may differ. Before acting on a contract, disclosure, title, tax, or pricing question, ask an appropriately licensed professional in your state.
Written and researched by Keighbor Research · drawn from the reference glossary · how we research and check what we publish
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