It’s no secret that rural properties are often just a little more out-in-the-sticks and in need of slightly more maintenance than a townhouse. But is this really the truth? Perhaps not. Sure you may be more exposed to the elements, but it’s often that due to our remote location we have to plan for the maintenance tasks with a little more care, and this can feel like the extra effort.
That being said, usual services taken care of by your local housing authority or public body may fall on your shoulders in a rural environment. For example, a private road is often not subject to the same maintenance laws as public roads are. This means that solving issues common to rural properties first starts with a little motivation, and then a lot of research.
Flooding Issues
Heavy rainfall can be a problem in towns, but sewer grates are often there to handle the worst of it. In a rural environment, you may not have such luxuries. If you live at the bottom of a slope or beneath steep land, you might find that water pools on your property. If not at your house, then perhaps in part of the land you have. This is where laying irrigation pipes can be a great option, and quite literally help you overcome the worst of your water damage. When faced with water damage, you should begin by inspecting the damage, getting the lay of the land, and implementing a solution quickly. Additionally, ask the locals about the flooding history of the area and how they deal with their particular setups. This may give you inspiration.
Private Land On Your Property
It might be that despite owning an acre of land with your new house, part of it is locked off to you. Why is that? Well, oil companies might have a pipeline there, a transformer pole may be in your garden, or a wheel that controls the flow of water in the area may also be part of this land. In your housing contract, it may state that workmen must have open access to this area at all times of day, and they may have the right to enter your back garden and maintain the small area without your express permission. It’s important not to secure this area too tightly then, to allow this operation. You may also place a sign at the entrance politely asking them to knock to let you know they are here. Additionally, you may want to consider what this means for the dogs you have and where they may be allowed to roam, and other security solutions you find appropriate.
Overflowing Septic Tanks
You may wake up one morning, start cooking your lovely bowl of oatmeal with blueberries and vanilla extract, sit down with the morning paper only to realize the morning odors you’re taking in are not that of a wholesome breakfast. A septic tank overflowing can be a real problem, and it shows that you are unaware of the responsibility afforded to you. Not all rural homes are close enough to the sewage network in urbanized areas to never worry about natural extraction. In rural properties, it’s mostly common for septic tanks and excellent septic tank services for cleaning and pumping to be the requirement in more ways than one.
Discuss this with your neighbors, and find out who is responsible for the septic tank. If you are connected to it, working out a split cost scenario can be important. If it is mostly on your property, you may need to foot the bill. But it’s important that you do, and also take heed of the professional advice you are given. This will truly help you avoid more unfortunate and quite embarrassing mistakes in the long run.
Signage Issues
Not everyone will be able to find your property, because not all GPS systems will register depending on how remote you are. This means that signage can be important, such as noting a private road or giving careful instruction to those who may wish to come. It’s a small consideration, but it’s worth keeping in mind, at least to see if it applies to you.
With this advice, you’re certain to solve issues common to rural properties.