What You Need to Know

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Dreaming of leaving the hustle and bustle behind for the charm of countryside living? With its picturesque landscapes, fresh air, and a slower pace of life, moving to a rural home can be tempting. But it’s worth considering a few often-overlooked aspects of rural living. While the countryside can be stunning, it comes with its own set of challenges that are important to consider.

A scenic village scene with a half-timbered house next to a narrow road. A stone bridge crosses a shallow river, marked with a water depth gauge. Trees with autumn foliage line the background.

This is a collaborative post.

Table of Contents

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The Reality of Rural Living
- Isolated Doesn’t Always Mean Tranquil
What’s Beneath the Surface?
- Septic Tanks
- Oil Heating Tanks
Planning Permissions and Rural Development
- ‘Unspoiled’ Might Not Stay That Way
Access and Infrastructure
- How Connected Are You, Really?
- Emergency Services and Deliveries
Familiarising Yourself with Local Culture
Nature’s Challenges
- Wildlife and Garden Maintenance
- Weather Preparedness

The Reality of Rural Living

Isolated Doesn’t Always Mean Tranquil

While the thought of isolation might sound amazing, countryside living isn’t always as quiet as a postcard suggests. Tractors rumbling down narrow lanes at 5 AM, farm animals voicing their opinions at sunrise, and the occasional cockerel singing long before your alarm clock are just some of the “ambient sounds” you may come across.

Be sure to visit your prospective neighbourhood at different times of day (and seasons, if possible) to get a sense of daily life in that area. Even rural areas can feel busy if you’re located near a major road or a farm with heavy machinery in use.

What’s Beneath the Surface?

Septic Tanks

Countryside properties are less likely to be connected to a municipal sewer system, meaning you could be inheriting a septic tank. These systems treat wastewater onsite and require regular maintenance, such as emptying every one to three years.

Before purchasing, ask about the age and condition of the tank and factor maintenance costs into your budget. If you’re new to the joys of septic tanks, don’t worry, it’s not rocket science. But it’s worth educating yourself on what not to flush to avoid a costly mess. Wet wipes, sanitary products and grease are big no-nos!

Oil Heating Tanks

Rural homes often rely on oil-fired central heating instead of gas or electric systems common in towns and cities. While oil heating can be reliable and effective, it comes with unique responsibilities.

You’ll need to monitor your oil tank levels regularly and order oil refills in advance to avoid a winter crisis. Prices can fluctuate based on market demand, so consider budgeting for a buffer during colder months. Additionally, give the system a once-over, or get a professional too, to ensure it’s in good condition when you move in. If you may need a new one then factor in the cost of heating oil tanks into your budget.

Planning Permissions and Rural Development

‘Unspoiled’ Might Not Stay That Way

One of the main advantages of rural living is the chance to surround yourself with unspoiled views. But “unspoiled” isn’t always guaranteed to stay that way. Whether it’s a proposed housing development or a wind farm project, planning permissions can alter the landscape and as such, your quality of life.

Research the local council’s planning applications to check for any upcoming changes in the area. This step can help you avoid any nasty surprises, like waking up one day to a construction project just over the fence.

Access and Infrastructure

How Connected Are You, Really?

Living in the countryside often means trading convenience for peace. Roads might be scenic, but narrow lanes and remote tracks can add challenges in bad weather or at night. Imagine navigating icy single-lane roads after a snowstorm or having to dodge tractors during harvest season.

Public transport options are also limited in many rural areas, so reliable personal transport is usually a must. And if you work from home, don’t forget to check the broadband situation. Some rural homes are still catching up with fibre-optic internet, which could be a deal breaker if you work from home or enjoy streaming or online gaming.

Emergency Services and Deliveries

When you move to the countryside, services we take for granted might operate a bit differently. Delivery drivers can struggle with hard-to-find homes, so be prepared to give detailed directions, possibly even including landmarks like “the house past the big oak tree” or using What 3 Words.

Emergency services, while dedicated, can take longer to reach remote locations. Buying good home security systems and, at minimum, a well-stocked first-aid kit is a wise move.

Familiarising Yourself with Local Culture

Community life plays a bigger role in the countryside than in most urban settings. Village events, local clubs, and community halls are often hotbeds of activity, providing great opportunities to meet neighbours.

While this close-knit vibe is lovely, it might also come with more scrutiny than what you’re used to. Neighbours will know your business far quicker than you may be used to. Everyone knows everyone else and this might be the lifestyle you want, but it might also be one you would hate!

Nature’s Challenges

Wildlife and Garden Maintenance

Living closer to nature also means sharing your space with it. From moles digging up flowerbeds to deer nibbling your vegetable patch, rural wildlife can impact your outdoor space.

Additionally, many rural homes have larger gardens that require more upkeep. If the idea of spending entire weekends mowing lawns and pulling out weeds sounds exhausting, factor in the cost of hiring a gardener or handyman.

Weather Preparedness

The countryside’s stunning landscapes often come with more extreme weather conditions. Stronger winds, heavy snowfall, and power outages are more common in remote areas. Preparing your home with standbys like a backup generator, good-quality insulation, and emergency supplies is essential for peace of mind.

Are you still considering living in the countryside, or have these thoughts put you off? Do you already live in the countryside? Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

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