Natural features & drainage characteristics 

• What are your plans with this land, and do you have enough acreage to support your objectives?
• What was the land previously used for?
• Can natural features of the land be preserved at a reasonable cost?
• Can you properly manage and maintain the land? Is the property located in a floodway, floodplain, or wetland? If so, are permits or flood insurance needed?
• Is there a history of mining on the property?
• Underground or surface mine?
• Was it reclaimed or is it abandoned?
• Are there any trees that could be saved for shade?
• What is the prevailing wind direction?
• Could there be concern of runoff from neighboring lots/fields?
• Have you visited the property during or after periods of heavy rainfall to see if rain water flows freely or if it ponds on the lot?
• Are there any field tile drains on the property? If tile is found during excavation, then it is critical to reconnect and direct around any structures.

Drinking Water Supply

• If well water, is the water supply safe, acceptable, and obtainable?
• Is water available from a public water system?
• What is the cost of drinking water?
• Do you have any other water needs?

Soil Considerations

• Have you contacted the Jefferson Soil & Water Conservation District to learn about your soil types?
• What are the soil types at the property?
• Are soils suitable for building?
• Did you know the frost depth is 36- inches in Jefferson County?
• Are soils suitable for agricultural purposes?
• Any steep or slip prone slopes?
• During excavation, stockpile your topsoil for future use for lawns and final grading.
• Will artificial drainage be necessary to handle excess soil wetness?

Sanitary Sewers & Home Septics

• Is a public sanitary sewer available at the property?
• Have you checked on sewer rates?
• Will you need to invest in a home septic treatment system?
• Have you had the existing home septic system tested by the county health department?
• Does the lot meet health department requirements for on-site home septic treatment systems?
• Can effluent flow by gravity, or does it need pumped to the leach field?
• Do you know the maintenance requirements for a septic system?
• Is a detailed sketch or map available showing locations of existing septic leach fields or sewer lines?

Local Regulations & Legal Requirements

• What easements are on or adjacent to your property?
• ROW, drainage, utility. Need to install a driveway? You’ll need a driveway permit (ODOT, County Engineer, Township, or Municipality)
• Have you checked specifications for driveway culverts?
• Is the property in a recorded subdivision?
• Are there any HOA fees?
• Are there restrictive covenants?
• Are the corners of the property clearly marked with iron pins or concrete markers?
• Can you identify the property boundary?
• Have you researched property tax evaluations?
• Have you checked with the municipality about building permits? Zoning? Stormwater Permitting?

Community Features

• What school district are you in?
• What home utilities are available (Electric, water, sewer, gas, telephone, cable, internet, trash)?
• Have you checked out surrounding areas for land uses that you may consider a nuisance to live near (farms, industries, highways, etc.)?
• How far are you from fire/police/ems services?
• How far are you from stores?
• Will you need a four-wheel drive vehicle to access the property during the winter and spring?

 

Download the "Before you Build or Buy" brochure