Well Abandonment
Proper Well Abandonment Matters
When a well is no longer in use, it must be abandoned properly to protect both your property and the environment. Well abandonment involves sealing off the well to prevent water contamination and eliminate safety hazards. If you have a dry, outdated, or unused well, it’s time for professional abandonment.
At WPI Water Resources Inc., we specialize in safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible water well services, including well abandonment for both residential and commercial customers. As one of the region’s most experienced well drilling companies, we can ensure every step is done right—and in full compliance with California and Arizona laws.
Why Well Abandonment Is Important
In California, well abandonment isn’t just good practice—it’s the law. Improperly sealed or abandoned wells can serve as direct channels for surface contaminants to reach groundwater, threatening drinking water and harming the ecosystem. According to state regulations, all wells must be properly sealed to avoid environmental damage and public health risks.
Unsealed wells also pose serious physical dangers. From accidental falls to wildlife hazards, an exposed well is a liability. In addition, leaving a well improperly abandoned can decrease property value and complicate real estate transactions or refinancing. That’s why choosing a trusted provider of water well services is so important.
How Well Abandonment Works
Professional well abandonment requires experience, proper licensing, and strict adherence to state protocols. As a trusted name in water well pump services, WPI follows all mandated procedures.
1. Pump and Obstruction Removal
We begin by removing pumps and other equipment from the well, prepping it for a safe, clean seal.
2. Disinfection
Next, the well is disinfected to eliminate bacteria and pathogens—ensuring it doesn’t pose a biological hazard.
3. Sealing the Well
We then fill the well with approved sealing materials like bentonite clay, sand, or cement, layered for a secure, permanent closure.
4. Documentation
A completed Well Completion Report (DWR Form 188) is filed with the California Department of Water Resources, confirming that all abandonment steps meet legal standards.
Attempting to abandon a well without licensed professionals can lead to fines or legal action. As a leading provider of water well pump services, WPI handles all compliance and paperwork for you.
Risks of Improper Well Abandonment
Failure to properly abandon a well can lead to:
- Groundwater contamination
- Legal fines and penalties
- Financial liability for cleanup
- Decreased property value
- Delays in property sales or refinancing
Avoid these risks by hiring a well-drilling company with expertise in well abandonment.
Choose WPI—Your Local Well Abandonment Experts
Not all well pump companies are equipped to handle well abandonment properly. At WPI Water Resources, we combine deep industry experience with up-to-date knowledge of state regulations to deliver well abandonment services that are safe, legal, and environmentally sound.
Whether you need full well abandonment, routine water well pump service, or another type of water well service, our licensed and bonded team is here to help. We’re proud to serve both California and Arizona with responsive, professional service you can count on.
Contact WPI Water Resources today to schedule your well abandonment service or to get a free estimate.