Wells and septic on rural Henry County property

Outside Clinton and the incorporated towns, many Henry County homes may not be on city utilities. A home may use a private well for drinking water and an onsite septic system for wastewater.

That changes the homework before a purchase. For a well, ask about water quality, depth, construction, and records. Missouri DNR is the source for well-construction information. For septic, ask about the system type, its condition, and whether permits or upgrades may be needed.

Near Truman Lake, these checks matter even more because systems may sit closer to a public water body. Before you assume who inspects or permits a system, confirm the responsible local office and the state rules that apply.