EstatePass
Practice Of Real EstateState SpecificHARD

A developer in Colorado purchases a large parcel of land and plans to build a 200-unit residential subdivision. The parcel has no existing water rights. The developer plans to rely on a new well to supply the subdivision. A buyer's broker advising a prospective lot purchaser should be aware that which of the following is the most significant water-related risk for buyers in this subdivision?

Correct Answer

D) Subdivision wells may be subject to curtailment during a priority call if they are tributary to an over-appropriated stream and lack senior water rights

Under Colorado's prior appropriation system (C.R.S. § 37-92-101 et seq.), wells that are hydraulically connected (tributary) to a stream system are subject to the priority system. A new well drilled for a 200-unit subdivision would receive a junior priority date. During a priority call on an over-appropriated stream, the State Engineer can order junior wells to stop pumping to protect senior surface water rights. This is a known and significant risk in many Colorado river basins. Buyers' brokers should ensure buyers understand this risk and investigate whether the water supply is legally secure.

Answer Options
A
The developer may not install wells on residential lots without a homeowners association approval
B
Colorado prohibits the use of wells in subdivisions with more than 50 units and requires connection to a municipal water system
C
Residential subdivision wells are automatically granted senior priority status under the Colorado Subdivision Act
D
Subdivision wells may be subject to curtailment during a priority call if they are tributary to an over-appropriated stream and lack senior water rights

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Deep Analysis of This Practice Of Real Estate Question

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Background Knowledge for Practice Of Real Estate

Sign up free to unlock full analysis
Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Real World Application in Practice Of Real Estate

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Practice Of Real Estate Questions

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

water_rightssubdivision_wellspriority_calltributary_wellprior_appropriationbuyer_risk

Related Concepts

A tie-in arrangement is an illegal antitrust practice in which a seller conditions the purchase of one product or service on the buyer's agreement to purchase a separate product or service.

A trust account, also called an escrow account, is a separate bank account maintained by a broker to hold funds belonging to others, such as earnest money deposits, security deposits, or other client funds.

Advertising regulations govern how real estate licensees may market properties and services, requiring truthful, non-deceptive advertising that includes proper identification of the brokerage.

Was this explanation helpful?

More Practice Of Real Estate Questions

People Also Study

Related Articles

Practice More Questions

Access 2,000+ practice questions and pass your real estate exam.

Start Practicing