If you've decided that the time is right to pursue a well for your home's water supply, you're probably ready to reach out to a well drilling contractor to get things started. Before you actually have that well drilled, though, it's important that you're well-informed and prepared for the entire process. The more you understand ahead of time, the less risk you'll have of any kind of confusion along the way. Here's a look at some of the things that you need to know before you have a well drilled for your home.
You Need To Find Water
Before you can drill a well on your property, the well drilling company will need to determine what the water table is like and where they will be able to access water on your property. In many cases, a site survey and a water location service will be called in to do this.
It's often best to ask for a water location service because they can locate water on your property without the need for multiple drilling attempts. This allows you to determine the best location for the well and only drill once, minimizing the disruption to your property along the way.
You'll Need Permits
Almost every town, state, and municipality will require that permits be obtained before you can drill a well on your property. You'll have to provide a plan to the issuing authority that details the depth of the well, the location where the well will be drilled, and the basic details of the well's construction.
You may also be required to have your property assessed and marked for safe digging. This involves marking the location of all of the underground electrical, gas, water, and any other lines that might be present. It's important that you don't skip this step because it ensures that you don't damage any necessary infrastructure in the process of drilling your well.
You Should Have The Water Tested
Once you've located your water source and gotten the permits, your well drilling company will drill the well to the necessary depth for adequate water flow. Once water has been reached, you should have that water tested right away. Testing the water will tell you if there are any contaminants present that need to be addressed. You can typically treat the well to ensure safe drinking water, but you need to know what you're treating for in order to do so properly.
Additionally, you should have the well water tested periodically, especially after major storms or any hazardous spills. Routine testing ensures that your well water is safe for your family and hasn't been contaminated by run-off from any other source.
Talk with a well drilling contractor near you today for more information about the process and to have your property assessed for well viability.