New wells
Do I need a permit to drill a well?
Yes. A well construction permit from the Northwest Florida Water Management District is required to build or repair a well, and only a Florida licensed water well contractor can apply for one. We pull the permit as part of the job and give you a copy.
How deep will my well be?
It depends on your property's geology and how much water you need. Some areas find good water in shallower sand and gravel, while others need to go deeper into limestone. We'll explain what to expect during the site visit.
Where can the well go on my property?
Wells need setbacks from septic tanks and drain fields, buildings and other possible sources of contamination. We'll find a spot that meets the rules and gives you the best chance at clean water.
Do you drill irrigation wells?
Yes. A separate irrigation well keeps lawn watering off your drinking water supply. We drill and set up irrigation wells across Bay County.
Do you work on commercial and agricultural wells?
Yes. We drill and service residential, commercial and agricultural wells.
Pumps & repairs
I have no water. What should I check first?
Check the breaker for the well pump. If it's tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, or the breaker is fine and you still have no water, leave it off and call us at (850) 763-6057.
Why does my pump keep clicking on and off?
Rapid cycling usually means the pressure tank has lost its air charge or the pressure switch is failing. It wears a pump out quickly, so it's worth fixing early.
Do you offer emergency service?
Yes. We offer emergency and holiday pump repairs, because being without water can't wait.
Can I replace my own pump?
The Water Management District doesn't consider pumps, piping, electrical service and tanks part of the well, so it doesn't require a permit for that work. Local code may still require plumbing or electrical permits, and pump work involves high voltage and heavy equipment, so we recommend having a professional do it.
Water quality
How often should I test my well water?
The Florida Department of Health strongly recommends testing for bacteria and nitrate at least once a year, and most homeowners should test for lead every three years. Test again after flooding, after work on the well, or when the water changes.
Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?
That's usually hydrogen sulfide, often called sulfur water. It can be treated with aeration, chlorination or filtration. A water test tells us which will work best.
Do you treat city water too?
Our sister company, Resource One Water Treatment, treats city water for homeowners who want their water without the chlorine. Learn more at resource1water.com.
Is the water quality consultation free?
Yes. Call us and we'll talk through what you're seeing and what testing makes sense.
Old & abandoned wells
What do I do with an old well I don't use?
All abandoned wells must be properly plugged. In Northwest Florida, plugging requires a permit from the Water Management District and must be done by a Florida licensed water well contractor. We handle it.
Why does plugging matter?
An open or failing well is a direct path for surface contamination to reach the aquifer that you and your neighbors drink from. It can also be a safety hazard.
Help & payment
Is there help paying for a new well?
The Water Well Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, helps American families without access to city water get a safe well. We're a partner. Visit waterwelltrust.org to see if you qualify.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept Visa and MasterCard. Call us with any other payment questions.
