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“Unlocking the Future of Water Management R1 Water Access Deserves a Second Look”

Posted by benjamen.harper@gmail.com on February 5, 2025
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R1 water access

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Quick Facts

  • R1 water access refers to the first level of access to improved drinking water sources as classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
  • The R1 category includes piped household water connections, public standpipes, and other improved drinking water sources.
  • Improved drinking water sources are defined as those that are protected from contamination and can provide water that is safe for human consumption.
  • The R1 classification is part of a larger system that categorizes water access into four levels: R1, R2, R3, and R4, with R1 being the highest level of access.
  • In order to be classified as R1, a household must have a piped water connection or a public standpipe that is located within 1 kilometer of the household.
  • R1 water access is considered to be the most convenient and reliable level of access to improved drinking water.
  • Households with R1 water access are less likely to experience water-borne illnesses and other health problems related to inadequate water access.
  • R1 water access is often associated with higher socioeconomic status and better overall health outcomes.
  • The percentage of the population with R1 water access can vary significantly from country to country and even within countries.
  • Achievement of R1 water access is considered an important milestone in the pursuit of universal access to safe and reliable drinking water.

Table of Contents

Unlock the Potential of R1 Water Access in Hawaii Real Estate

Laying the Foundation for Your Dream Home

As a distinguished real estate company in the beautiful state of Hawaii, Hawaii Elite Real Estate recognizes the complexities and nuances of R1 water access in the Aloha State. As a prospective buyer or seller, understanding this critical factor can make all the difference in the process.

In essence, R1 water access refers to a zoning classification that permits a single-family dwelling to be located on a rural lot without specific requirements for a well, septic system, or municipal water and sewage services. This zoning designation allows for significant flexibility and freedom in choosing the perfect property for your needs.

History and Evolution of R1 Water Access

Historically, rural lands in Hawaii were zoned as R1, resulting in limited access to public water and sewer infrastructure. Over the years, there have been calls to revise and modernize these zoning regulations to accommodate our ever-changing needs and lifestyle.

In 2018, the State of Hawaii enacted significant changes to the zoning regulations governing rural lands, with the Agricultural District zoning updated to permit for individual wells and alternate septic systems. Although R1 water access is no longer required, the existing and grandfathered-in R1 properties remain permissible.

Key Considerations for R1 Water Access Properties

Investing in a property with R1 water access can be an option for individuals seeking a rural retreat, a single-family home on larger acreage or in some cases, for private water well installation that would cost less to a neighborhood pipe-in area because their neighbors have their own wells.

Ultimately, purchasing a property with R1 water access does not exempt property owners from seeking permission from relevant authorities to ensure compliance with all underlying regulations and changes.

Key Benefits of R1 Water Access

When engaging in a real estate transaction of an R1 water access property we find the primary benefits to users are cost savings compared to on-grid water costs. With proper planning and due diligence, purchasing a home with R1 water access can result in significant cost savings.

Here are the key advantages:

Pros of R1 Water Access Cons of R1 Water Access
Cost Savings on Water Maintenance of On-Site Systems
Flexibility and Freedom Potential for High Upfront Costs
Self-Sufficiency Liability for Compliance with Regulations
Reduced Dependence on Public Services Requirements for Well Maintenance and Upgrades
Scenic and Private Settings Potential Impact on Property Value

Understanding R1 Zoning Requirements

Zoning regulations under the Hawaii Revised Statutes and the Director of Land and Natural Resources play an essential role in governing development under R1 zoning.

Here is a summary of the key points in brief:

  • The zoning designation can be used for single family homes
  • Must be allowed by zoning ordinances and not in conflict with those regulations per zoning and HCC
  • Must meet the minimum water requirements of 5 gallons per minute at 20 foot draw
  • Zoned rural but may have restrictions and approvals from the County
  • Areas like Hawaii island areas may be different due to county specific code

Complementary Services from Hawaii Elite Real Estate

As a leading real estate company in Hawaii, Hawaii Elite Real Estate offers complementary services that cater to your needs, including:

  • Customized Real Estate Solutions
  • Innovative Marketing Strategies
  • Personalized Concierge Services
  • Extensive Market Knowledge
  • Relocation And Referral Services

Get in Touch with Us

If you’re considering purchasing or selling a property with R1 water access, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Hawaii Elite Real Estate at 808-866-6593. We’re here to provide expert guidance and support through every step of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions:

R1 Water Access FAQ

  • What is R1 water access? R1 water access is a type of water access format that provides a standardized way to access and manage water data
  • What are the benefits of R1 water access? The benefits of R1 water access include improved data management and sharing, enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, and increased efficiency in water management decision making
  • How does R1 water access work? R1 water access works by providing a common data format and platform for accessing and managing water data, allowing users to easily share and integrate data from different sources
  • What types of data can be accessed through R1 water access? Through R1 water access, users can access a wide range of water data, including surface water and groundwater data, water quality data, and climate and weather data
  • Who can use R1 water access? R1 water access is available to a wide range of users, including water management professionals, researchers, and policymakers, as well as the general public
  • How do I get started with R1 water access? To get started with R1 water access, users can visit the R1 website and register for an account, then browse the data catalog to find the data they need
  • What are the system requirements for using R1 water access? The system requirements for using R1 water access include a computer or mobile device with internet access, and a web browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
  • How is R1 water access data protected? R1 water access data is protected through the use of secure servers and encryption, as well as user authentication and access controls to ensure that only authorized users can access the data
  • Can I contribute my own data to R1 water access? Yes, users can contribute their own data to R1 water access, by visiting the R1 website and following the data submission guidelines
  • How often is the R1 water access data updated? The R1 water access data is updated regularly, with new data added as it becomes available, and existing data updated and refined to ensure accuracy and completeness

Resources & Links

For Buyers & Sellers

The Impact of R1 Water Access on Home Buyers and Sellers

As I reflect on the complexities of rural property ownership, it is clear that easy access to R1 water remains a crucial factor in determining the desirability and practicality of a property. For home buyers, access to reliable R1 water can make all the difference between a potential dream home and a financially crippling setback.

For home sellers, on the other hand, R1 water access can be a major selling point, particularly for those looking to attract sellers or buyers who prioritize convenience and practicality. In areas with limited or no R1 water access, properties may be perceived as less desirable, which can impact their market value. Conversely, homes with R1 water access can command a premium price, especially for those who value the peace of mind that comes with reliable water supply.

However, the relationship between R1 water access and property value is not without its challenges. In some cases, R1 water may require significant investment, including the installation of wells, pumps, and plumbing systems. This can add significant upfront costs, which can deter both buyers and sellers.

Moreover, R1 water access can also come with its own set of responsibilities, including regular maintenance, testing, and potentially even liability for water-related issues. This can be a significant burden for property owners, particularly for those who are not familiar with the complexities of rural water management.

Ultimately, the impact of R1 water access on home buyers and sellers is closely tied to the local water infrastructure and the availability of R1 water. For those with easy access to reliable R1 water, the benefits are clear, but for those without, the challenges and uncertainties can be significant. As a result, it is essential for buyers, sellers, and property owners to carefully weigh the pros and cons of R1 water access and to consider the long-term implications for their property ownership experience.

Key takeaways for home buyers and sellers:

  • R1 water access can have a significant impact on property desirability and value
  • Easy access to reliable R1 water can be a major selling point, while limitations can deter buyers
  • Significant investment is required to install and maintain R1 water infrastructure
  • R1 water access also comes with management responsibilities and potential liability
  • Buyers and sellers must carefully weigh the pros and cons of R1 water access and consider the long-term implications for their property ownership experience

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Photos of R1 water access

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© 2026 Hawaii Elite Real Estate. Brokered by Real Broker, LLC. 2176 Lauwiliwili St., # 1, Kapolei, HI, 96707, United States. All Rights Reserved.

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