What to Know About Water Systems on Large Land Parcels in Tysons

Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD with McEnearney Associates in McLean. Reach the office at 703-790-9090.

I meet a lot of people who want a large piece of land with their house in the Tyson’s Corner area.

For many, a quarter acre lot (about 10,000 sq. ft.) isn’t enough. But did you know the larger the lot size in Vienna and McLean, the higher probability the house is on well water and/or a septic system instead of public utilities? That’s the funny thing about land, once you get over about a half acre, you’re leaving behind Fairfax County water/sewer.

If you’re looking for land or already own a house with land, don’t forget about these maintenance items and some pros and cons.

Well Water

Pro: Water is free! Many people say it also tastes better.

You should check your pH level regularly, along with other possible contaminates. There’s a small cost associated with maintenance on a well — neutralizer, water filtration system, water softener, etc. If the well ever gets contaminated past the point of safe usage, you may have to drill new one. Learn more about Wells.

Septic System

Septic systems are in place of public sewer, which handles all water and organic matter that runs down the plumbing system. The septic tank is buried in the yard and flows to a drainfield.

Maintenance: The septic tank should be pumped every 3-5 years. When you’re buying a home, you should be doing a septic tank inspection where they check to make sure the size of the system is adequate for the house (usually this is measured by the number of bedrooms).

To learn more about septic systems, read here.

My go to contractors for each are Bell Pump and Well and Five Star Septic.

If you have more questions on this topic or others related to home care, buying or selling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].