Utility Access 101: What You Need to Know Before You Build

If you’re planning to build a custom home in Middle Tennessee, utility access is one of the first—and most important—topics to understand. It’s not as exciting as floorplans or finishes, but it can make or break your build timeline and budget.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about utility access before building on your own lot, including how it works, what to expect, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What Utilities Do You Need to Build?

Every residential home in Tennessee needs access to a few key utilities before construction can begin:

• Water: Municipal water or a private well
• Sewer or Septic: City sewer system or an approved septic tank
• Electricity: Service from a public utility provider
• Gas (Optional): Natural gas line or propane tank
• Internet/Cable: Depends on location and provider availability

Most homeowners assume utilities are readily available—but rural and undeveloped land often lacks direct access. This is why a utility assessment should be part of your land evaluation process. See Common Mistakes People Make When Building on Their Own Lot to understand the risks of skipping this step.

How to Check for Utility Access

1. Review Property Records

Start by reviewing the plat map and seller disclosures. These often indicate whether utilities are available at the lot line.

2. Call Local Utility Providers

Contact the relevant water, electric, and gas companies to confirm access and availability. Ask about:

• Distance to nearest connection point
• Cost estimates for extension
• Timeframes for installation

3. Conduct a Percolation Test (for Septic)

If your land doesn’t have sewer access, a perc test will determine if the soil can support a septic system. This is required for permitting and may affect where your home can be placed on the lot.

4. Schedule a Site Evaluation

A professional builder like Hewn will walk your land and provide a utility feasibility report before you finalize a build plan or price.

See The Ultimate Guide to Building on Your Lot in Middle Tennessee for more on site selection and evaluation.

Utility Scenarios: What You Might Encounter

Scenario 1: Utilities at the Lot Line

This is the ideal situation. All you’ll need to do is pay a connection fee and arrange installation timelines with each provider. Still, it’s important to coordinate service during the early construction phase to avoid delays.

Scenario 2: Utilities Nearby, But Not On-Site

Some properties have utility lines running nearby—but not directly connected. This usually requires paying for trenching, tap fees, and installation, which can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.

Scenario 3: No Utilities Available

Remote or agricultural parcels may require:

• Drilling a private well
• Installing a septic system
• Running new electric poles or underground lines
• Using propane for gas appliances

These situations demand a deeper feasibility review, especially if you’re considering a private estate or building in a rural area.

Cost Considerations

Here’s a rough guide to what utility setup might cost:

• Electric Extension: $5,000 – $25,000+
• Water Line: $2,000 – $15,000+
• Septic System: $6,000 – $15,000+
• Well Drilling: $8,000 – $20,000+
• Gas Line or Tank: $1,500 – $5,000+

Costs vary significantly depending on terrain, distance, and provider. At Hewn, we provide firm pricing up front—including utility estimates—so you’re never caught off guard. Learn more in Fixed Pricing in a Custom Build: What It Is and Why It Matters.

Permitting and Coordination

Every utility requires coordination with inspectors and compliance with local codes. This includes:

• Submitting applications to utility companies
• Securing trench inspections and tie-in approvals
• Scheduling installation in coordination with your build timeline

As your builder, Hewn handles these logistics so you don’t have to juggle multiple service providers or government agencies.

Planning Ahead: How Hewn Makes Utility Access Easy

One of the biggest reasons people choose Hewn for their custom build is our hands-on approach to site development. From your first land consultation to your final inspection, we handle:

• Feasibility analysis and recommendations
• Cost and timeline forecasting
• Permitting and provider coordination
• Full site prep and excavation

If you haven’t yet secured land, we also help you find off-market properties with accessible infrastructure or developable conditions.

Before You Build, Do This

Utility access should never be an afterthought. If you’re in the early stages of a custom build—or even just shopping for land—let us help you get it right from day one.

Contact Hewn for a no-obligation site evaluation and learn what’s really possible on your property.