By Jenny Mills · rural nurse & homesteader · health, safety, law and the paperwork of going bush

“After the 2019 drought killed my first bore, I learned that a soil test is the only reliable proof of water before you buy.”

You're buying off-grid? Don't get scammed. Skip the "it's fine" bullshit. Inspect these three things hard. Water, soil, structures. That's it. If these are broken, you're broke.

Water: No Water = No Off-Grid

Don't trust the seller's "we've got water." Test it. Hard.

• Check bore depth: If it's shallow (less than 50m), it'll dry up in drought. Ask for the bore log.
• Test tank water: Get a lab test for E. coli, salinity, and heavy metals. $150-$300 via AWA Labs or SGS Australia. If it's green or smells, skip it.
• Check dam reliability: Is it dry by March? Ask neighbours. If yes, you need a backup bore. Cost: $10k-$30k for a new bore.

Soil: Your Food, Your Health, Your Money

Bad soil = no food, toxic garden, expensive fixes. Test it before you buy.

• Check salinity: If the soil's white crusty, it's salted out. Test for sodium (over 20mmol/L = dead soil). Cost: $50-$150 via AgriFutures Australia or state agriculture departments (often free).
• Test pH: Most veggies want 6.0-7.0. If it's below 5.5 or above 8.0, you're paying for lime or sulfur. Cost: $20-$50 from Soil Testing Australia.
• Check for contamination: Ask if there's been mining or chemical use nearby. If yes, get a full soil test ($200+).

Structures: Don't Buy a Death Trap

That "charming" old shed? It might be termite soup. Inspect like your life depends on it (because it does).

• Termite check: Hire a certified inspector ($500-$1500). Don't use a mate who "knows a bit." If it's infested, treatment costs $2k-$8k. Rentokil or Bunnings for DIY (but it's not enough for serious infestations).
• Roof integrity: Check for rot, missing tiles, and leaks. A rotten roof = $10k+ to fix. If the roof's been patched 3 times, walk away.
• Sheds and fences: Are they built to withstand bushfire? If they're timber and flammable, you're at risk. Cost to replace: $5k-$15k for a fire-rated shed.

When to Call a Professional

While many off-grid projects are achievable as DIY, certain situations require licensed professionals:

• Electrical work beyond basic 12V DC additions — requires a licensed electrician
• Structural modifications to buildings or load-bearing elements
• Gas line installation or modification
• Solar array installations above safe voltage thresholds
• Any work that affects the structural integrity of your property

Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before commencing work.