How to Hire a Water Well Contractor

Proir to selecting a water well contractor for a job, it is a good idea to obtain information about several contractors in the area before making a choice.  The following information should be considered:

• Is the contractor licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts?  You may visit the following link to verify licensing status.  www.mass.gov/dcr/waterSupply/welldril
• Does the contractor submit well logs?
• Does the contractor have equipment in good condition suitable for the requirements of the job?
• Does the contractor have adequate liability and workers compensation insurance to protect you?
• What is the contractor’s reputation with previous customers?  Is the contractor willing to supply references?
• Will the contractor furnish a written contract specifying the terms and conditions of the job?

Written Contracts

It is important to obtain a written contract when preparing to have a well constructed.  Unless you know what each contractor will do for his specified price, you can’t compare offers and decide which one to hire.

• Liability insurance coverage held by the contractor.
• Compliance with local and state regulations and codes.
• The diameter and well thickness of the casing to be used.  The type of well development , duration, and yield evaluation procedures to be used.
• For sand and gravel wells the cost of soil boring and sieve analysis to determine proper screen design.
• The type of screen to be installed.
• The disinfection procedure.
• The cleanup after drilling of equipment and materials used, except cuttings and waste water.
• An anticipated date for start of drilling.
• A guarantee of materials and workmanship on new wells.

Costs

An itemized list of costs is better than a lump sum.  The list could include.

• Cost of drilling per foot
• Cost of casing per foot
• Cost of other operations, such as grouting, developing, water tests, permits, and pump tests.
• Cost of decommissioning or abandoned well should it be necessary or required by the town.

Return to Home Page