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While water wells are common in many homes, these features can become problematic when they're no longer in use. If they're not being maintained, they must be "abandoned" or "decommissioned," which is a formal process that involves many steps. If you have a well on your property that you don't use, review the following guide to determine how to proceed.

Common Questions About Abandoned Water Wells

How do you designate a water well as “abandoned?”

To abandon a well, your contractor must first remove the components inside the casing, such as the electrical controls, drop pipe, and pump. They must also pull driven points out of the ground and fill the holes with a solid material, such as grout. Wells that were dug out will then need to be filled with soil and compacted. The decommissioning process for drilled wells can be extensive, but it mainly consists of removing the casing and sealing the opening with grout.

Why do they need to be abandoned?

water wellIf a well is left unused, it could allow contaminants from landscaping, industrial properties, and other processes into the groundwater, polluting the ecosystem. The opening could also become a tripping hazard for small children and pets, resulting in injuries and liability issues.

How can I tell if there’s a forgotten well on my property?

Even if the previous owner didn't notify you about a well, you can identify one that’s out of service by looking for some telling clues. For example, if you see a small, doghouse-size structure on your property, this could have been a well house—a structure built to insulate the pump and other components from cold weather. Or, you might notice pipes sticking up from the ground, which connect to underground wells. Other red flags include depressions in the yard, concrete pits, and windmills.

Can I do it myself?

Since forgotten wells can lead to significant consequences, it's best to leave this job to trained professionals. The decommissioning process is also different for every water well, which would require weeks of research and planning on your part. When you work with a contractor, you can rest assured that your loved ones, your property, and the surrounding ecosystem will be safe.

 

If you think you have an out-of-service water well on your property, have Reliable Pump & Well Services, LLC in Montgomery, NY, decommission it. They serve clients throughout Orange County and the surrounding areas, whether they need new wells drilled or old ones filled and sealed. With their 24-hour service and financing options, you can rest assured this contractor is always looking out for your best interests. To learn more about their offerings, visit their website or call (845) 629-8301 today.

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