Water well driller using an auger. / © Adobe Stock
To find the right driller, you will first need to find out what firms service your area. Search the internet; ask your family, friends, and neighbors; and contact your local health department as many maintain a list of drillers in your area. Once you have a list of drillers, you can narrow them down by asking some questions to find out whether they are the right fit for you or not.
What is their reputation in the community? A reputable driller should have a good reputation in the area. You can ask your neighbors or others in the community about their experiences with different drillers.
What kind of license and certification do you have? It is important to ensure that the driller is licensed and certified. In some states, drillers are required to be licensed, while in others, certification such as a National Ground Water Association's master well driller is recommended.
What is your experience and expertise? Look for a driller who has experience in drilling wells in your area. Drillers who have drilled many wells in a specific area are likely to have a good understanding of the local geology and where water can be found.
What services do you provide? It may be beneficial to choose a driller who can provide a range of services, including drilling the well, installing the pump, and handling all the equipment in the house. This ensures that you only have to deal with one contractor and reduces the risk of miscommunication or finger-pointing.
Can you provide me any references? Ask the driller for references from previous customers. You can also check online reviews or ratings from organizations like the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of their reputation.
Will you provide a contract and other documentation? A reputable driller should provide a contract that outlines the scope of work, costs, and any warranties or guarantees. They should also provide you with a copy of the well log, which contains important information about the well construction.
What kind of insurance do you carry? A water well driller should carry liability insurance. This type of insurance provides coverage in case of any damages or accidents that may occur during the drilling process. It is important for the driller to have this insurance to protect themselves and their clients in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Remember to do your due diligence and ask plenty of questions before making a decision. It’s important to do your research and choose a driller who is experienced, knowledgeable, and has a proven track record in well drilling, so you receive high-quality service.
Want to learn more about your private well and how to care for it?
Sign up for the free 10-week email course from PrivateWellClass.org. The class is a project of the University of Illinois and RCAP, with funding from USEPA.
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