Why Do I Need to Properly Abandon a Water Well?
We get asked this question routinely, so in the spirit of educating the customer, below is the answer:
So Why Do You Need to do Anything to Abandon a Well?
Can’t you just leave it be? After all, you’re abandoning it, right? Not so fast. You are legally responsible for properly abandoning the well because not doing so could threaten public health. Also, if the well is ever to be used again, you need to take careful precautions to ensure you’re not contaminating the well in the meantime.
Ultimately the steps needed to abandon a well are based on the following factors:
> well type
> well depth
> temporary or permanent well sealing
> local regulations and laws
Overall the proper abandonment procedure involves eliminating the risk of physical hazard and the pathway for possible contamination.
Preventing Accidents
Old wells that were not properly abandoned pose a risk to those walking around them. There are multiple cases of children and adults falling into abandoned wells, and they don’t all have happy endings. So preventing people from falling into the hole is the top safety concern.
Preventing Ground Water Contamination
Secondarily, but still very important is preventing contamination of the groundwater and future wells on the site.
If you or the future landowner install a new well, it can easily become contaminated due to the improper abandonment of the old well.
It’s not just about contaminating newer wells though — you need to keep in mind that you can be held responsible for contaminating the water supply of your fellow citizens.
Need to Get your Wells Properly Abandoned?
If you live in the greater Raleigh area, consider A&T Well and Pump, a reputable company that specializes in well drilling, maintenance, and repairs. They will test the water, inspect the well, make any necessary repairs, and then disinfect the well before you resume using the water. If you have any of the concerns detailed above, or just want to get some routine testing and maintenance done, contact us today by calling 919-291-4063 or by filling out the appointment request form at the top of the page.
