The materials such as well casing, seals, and grout used in a water well must be safe for drinking water and durable enough to prevent contamination from outside sources (e.g., surface water, septic systems, chemicals from surrounding land). Using materials specifically designed for use with wells will increase the chance of well longevity. Also, check that your mechanical components come with warranties or guarantees that cover any manufacturing errors.

An EHP will work with the well driller and homeowner to determine the appropriate depth and construction specifications to access clean groundwater that meets the usage needs. If local or state regulations exist, the well design will need to meet regulatory standards to prevent contamination.

To learn more about the different types of wells, check out this article: What are the different types of water wells?

Most states require that a licensed well driller or contractor install a private water well. These professionals must earn continuing education credits that ensure they are up to date and knowledgeable about the latest in technology and regulations. You can contact your local or state agency that oversees well drillers to obtain an approved list of drillers in your area.

If your state does not require a driller to be licensed or does not require your driller to show proof of competency, we recommend you find a driller that is certified through the National Groundwater Association.

An EHP will conduct a drilling site assessment to ensure that a well is located far enough away from any sources of contamination and follows required setbacks. They will check that the well is not located in a floodplain or near potential contamination sources like feed lots or storage sheds with chemicals and will check the geology and hydrology of the area to ensure suitable conditions for drilling.

Check out this article for more information: Where should my new well be located?

The drilling process must comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, including acquiring necessary permits and following proper disposal practices for any waste materials generated during drilling.

While many states have comprehensive regulations, some states have less stringent or no statewide codes. Some states, such as Alaska and Pennsylvania, do not have statewide well construction codes. In these states, local or county regulations often govern well construction standards.

To find the agency that oversees well construction codes in your state, search the internet for "(Your State) Well Construction Codes".

The EHP will check that the driller is adhering to the pre-approved construction design and, if needed, make adjustments to the design. They will monitor potential cross-contamination between aquifers and ensure proper sealing of the well to prevent surface water or shallow groundwater from mixing with deeper, potable water sources.

During a final inspection, the EHP will verify that the well cap is sealed with a gasket​ and ensure the annulus, the space between the well casing and the drilled hole, is sealed with grout to prevent surface contaminants from entering the well.
Any abandoned wells should be properly sealed to prevent contamination and safety hazards too. They will check that the site is properly restored, any risks of contamination are minimized, and the well is secured to prevent accidents or unauthorized use.

The only way to know that the water from your new well is safe to drink is to test it. An initial test for contaminants such as bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and other pollutants should be done to ensure the water is safe for consumption. Regular sampling and testing of water is recommended to ensure it continues to meet safety standards for drinking water.

The well driller should provide all drilling records, including details on geology, materials used, and well depth, as these records are crucial for future reference and troubleshooting​.

Check out this article for more information: Where can I obtain my well log, and what information does it contain?

Once the drilling is done, it is up to the homeowner to prolong the life of the well through regular maintenance. Check out this article to see How do I maintain my water well?