Buying in Litchfield, NH: town water, private wells and PFAS testing

Why do Litchfield buyers hear about PFAS?

PFAS chemicals from the former Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics plant in Merrimack, across the river, were found in private wells in nearby towns. NHDES and Saint-Gobain entered a consent decree whose area includes parts of Litchfield, and Pennichuck extended public water lines to about 360 Litchfield homes as part of the response. The plant closed in 2024.

How do I find out what water a home has?

Ask the listing agent or seller whether the home is connected to Pennichuck or uses a private well, and ask for any water test results. NHDES publishes a PFAS sampling map, and the seller's disclosure and your home inspector can help confirm the source.

What should I test if the home has a well?

NHDES advises home buyers to test well water with an accredited laboratory, since many common contaminants have no taste, smell or color. In southern New Hampshire, ask the lab about arsenic, radon in water and PFAS along with the standard panel. Results take time, so schedule the test as soon as your offer is accepted.

Does a well affect my mortgage?

The appraisal notes the home's water source. Depending on the loan program, the property and what the appraiser finds, a lender may ask for a water test or treatment before closing. If treatment is needed, NHDES has offered rebates toward PFAS treatment for eligible private well owners; check its current program terms. Tell Tom early that the home has a well, and he'll tell you what your loan will need.

Next step: Found a Litchfield home? Send Tom the address and he'll walk you through the water questions and the payment. No credit pull to start.