The Where, Why, What, How, and Who of Sealing a Well

Locating an old well on untamed land might be easy or it might be hard. Often, homeowners find a well through certain telltale signs in the ground itself. There may be remains of an old well house or pipes that stick out of the ground. Some old wells cause unexplained depressions in the ground above or come with visible concrete pits or vaults. 

Other times, you may not have physical evidence to rely on. Check old surveys, maps, or title documents to look for signs that a well was once dug. Long-time neighbors can even be a good resource. In an extreme case, you may even need a trained professional to find the well. 

Unused wells might seem like no big deal, but they create two basic hazards.

The first risk is illustrated by how you may have found the well in the first place. Pipes and unused equipment that stick out of the ground are a hazard for anyone who works or plays in the area. They’re also a risk to wildlife and to any domestic animals or livestock you own. The unstable ground can also be a serious fall risk for both humans and animals. You also may not be able to develop this section of land how you want. 

Second, the well remains are an ongoing groundwater and soil hazard. Rust, old contaminants, bacteria, and damaged well casing material can all seep into the ground. Depending on the depth of the old well and any equipment left in it, these chemicals and bacteria can get into your current groundwater and further pollute the soil in the area. 

Landowners who find an old unsealed well generally have an obligation to seal it properly regardless of who made it. Because these structures pose a threat to the health and well-being not only of your family but also of neighbors and nearby businesses, many states have listed statutes that require their proper disposal.

In limited cases, a knowledgeable landowner may be allowed to seal a hand-dug well on their own, but most wells must be handled by trained professionals. The well service may also need to submit paperwork to the state that verifies that the well was properly sealed. 

So, if you must seal a well, what is the process? Methods vary depending on the type and size of the well, but it generally begins at the bottom with an approved back-fill process that fills in the well's empty space (both inside and outside the casing). Prior to filling, old equipment and piping may need to be removed as well. The state then generally provides guidelines on what type of solid material can be used as a permanent cap. 

Few homeowners should attempt well sealing alone. Improper or inadequate plugging methods might not stop any soil or water damage and may even make seepage worse.

Missouri landowners who know of or suspect an abandoned well on their land can call the pros at Lefty's Pump & Drilling Co. We will help you find the well, determine the most appropriate sealing methods, and provide needed documentation. Call today to make an appointment or learn more.