If you are living in an area where access to municipal water supply is either far from your home or not available, you may have to consider the option of using a shared well with your neighbors. A shared well agreement is simply a legal agreement between neighbors sharing the same well for water consumption purposes. It’s important to have a shared well agreement in place to avoid disputes and to ensure that everyone has access to clean water.
However, finding a shared well agreement can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the area. In this article, we`ll guide you through the process of finding a shared well agreement.
1. Check with your property’s paperwork – If you are buying a new property, the title company or the seller’s representative should provide you with information on the shared well agreement. Look for the agreement in the property’s paperwork, and ensure that it is up to date. The agreement should include all the necessary details such as the location, the number of people sharing the well, the condition of the well, and the maintenance schedule.
2. Get in touch with your neighbors – Your neighbors may have lived in the area for a longer period and may have more information on the shared well agreement. Talk to them and ask if they have a copy of the agreement, and if they don’t, work together to find one. In addition, ask your neighbors about the condition of the well, the maintenance schedule, and any issues that have arisen in the past. This will help you to know what to expect once you are a part of the shared well agreement.
3. Contact your local zoning or health department – The local zoning or health department is responsible for overseeing water management in your area. They will have information on the shared well agreement, and they can guide you on the necessary steps to take to ensure that the agreement is legal and up to date.
4. Hire a lawyer – If you are not satisfied with the information you have received, or if you are not sure of what to do, you can consult a lawyer. A lawyer experienced in water management can guide you on the legal implications of sharing a well with your neighbors. They can also help you to draft an agreement that takes into account all the necessary details that will prevent disputes in the future.
In conclusion, sharing a well with your neighbors is a good alternative to accessing municipal water supply. However, it’s important to have a shared well agreement in place to avoid disputes and to ensure that everyone has access to clean water. If you are looking for a shared well agreement, check the property’s paperwork, talk to your neighbors, contact your local zoning or health department, or hire a lawyer.