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.
Every term like this one lights up in the step you're on.
Free to set up. No credit card.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
One piece of your sale. Here is where all the pieces live.
In your room, this word explains itself where it appears.
Keighbor keeps your whole home sale in one place and defines every term like this one right where you meet it, in the step you're on. Free to set up, with or without an agent.