Top Questions to Ask Before Drilling a Well

Top Questions to Ask Before Drilling a Well

If you're thinking about drilling a well, getting an estimate is only the beginning. A proper estimate should do more than give you a price—it should help you understand the entire process, the expected outcome, and any possible challenges. Asking the right questions can protect your investment and ensure your water system is set up correctly the first time. Here's what you should ask before agreeing to any well drilling estimate.

What’s Included in the Estimate?

This may seem obvious, but many people overlook it. Not all estimates are created equal. Some might include labor only, while others cover equipment, casing, drilling, permits, pump installation, and water testing. Ask for a line-by-line breakdown of what you're actually paying for, so there are no surprises later.

Is the Estimate Based on a Flat Rate or Per Foot Drilled?

Most Well-drilling companies charge by the foot. But the depth of your well isn't always predictable. Ask whether the estimate reflects a flat rate or if the final price will depend on how deep they need to drill to find a reliable water source. If it’s per foot, ask about the expected range and what happens if they go deeper than planned.

What Kind of Well Will You Be Drilling?

There are different types of wells: drilled, bored, and driven. Drilled wells are most common for residential water systems, but you should confirm what method will be used and why it's appropriate for your property. The drilling method affects cost, reliability, and maintenance needs.

Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?

Well drilling usually requires local permits and sometimes inspections. Ask whether the contractor will take care of the paperwork or if that’s on you. Having a professional handle the permitting process can save you time and stress—and reduce the risk of missing something important.

What Type of Casing and Materials Will Be Used?

Well casings protect the water from contamination and ensure the structure of the well stays intact. Not all casings are the same. Ask about the material (PVC or steel, for example), diameter, and how far into the bedrock they plan to go. Better materials may cost more, but can mean fewer problems down the line.

Will You Perform a Water Yield and Quality Test?

Getting a well doesn’t guarantee clean or sufficient water. Ask if the estimate includes water yield testing (how much water you’re getting per minute) and quality testing for bacteria, minerals, or contaminants. These tests are critical to understanding what kind of filtration or treatment you might need.

Who Will Be on Site During the Drilling?

Determine whether the person providing the estimate will be on-site during the job or if a different crew will be handling it. You want to know who’s actually doing the work and who to contact if something doesn’t go as planned. It also helps to ask how many people will be involved and what their roles are.

What Kind of Pump System Is Included?

The well is only half of the equation—the pump system brings the water to your house. Ask about the brand, type, and horsepower of the pump. Will it be submersible or above-ground? What’s the warranty? Make sure the system is sized appropriately for your household's water use.

Are There Any Possible Extra Charges?

Sometimes drilling hits rock layers or water is found deeper than expected. Ask what kinds of unexpected issues could arise and how they’d be handled on your bill. Will you be notified before extra work is done? Will you need to approve changes in writing?

What Is the Timeline for the Job?

A drilling job can take one day or several, depending on conditions. Ask how long it’s expected to take and what might delay the process. You’ll also want to know how soon they can begin and  weather could play a role in scheduling.

Is the Work Guaranteed?

Drilling a well is a big investment. Ask about any warranties or guarantees on both the drilling and the pump system. If there’s a problem six months later, will they come back to fix it? How long is their workmanship covered?

Can You Provide References?

A reputable well driller should have no problem sharing references from past clients. It’s a simple way to get peace of mind and see how satisfied other homeowners have been with their service. Ask for references in your area if possible.

Final Thoughts

Drilling a well is more than digging a hole. It’s a critical step toward self-sufficient, long-term access to clean water. That’s why asking the right questions matters. A good contractor won’t mind you asking detailed questions—in fact, they should welcome it. It shows you’re serious and invested in getting the job done right.

If you’re ready to take the next step or want a second opinion on your current estimate, Reach out to Jesse's Well Pump Repair today. We’re happy to walk you through the process and give you honest, straightforward answers.