WorldWide Drilling Resource

So You Want to Start a Well Drilling Business Adapted from Information Provided by michigan.gov The water well drilling industry plays an invaluable role in our society. Water well contractors supply groundwater to households, cities, villages, small businesses, schools, large industries, agricultural operations, recreational facilities, and countless other users. Awell drilling business can be a stable means of income for years to come since the demand for services is expected to remain strong indefinitely. Building a successful drilling enterprise requires years of hard work, commitment, and perseverance. A modern, fully-equipped well drilling business takes substantial capital investment. Specialized technical skills, sound entrepreneurial practices, and courteous, prompt customer service are all hallmarks of reputable well drilling businesses. The best contractors strive to maintain consumer confidence in water from private wells and protect groundwater for the future. First and foremost, you need to become familiar with regulations. Know the legal requirements in your state or territory before getting in too deep. Each one has water well and pump installation codes dealing with well drilling and pump installation registrations; supervision of drilling/pump installation activities; and well/pump code provisions. Make sure you have proper permits every time. These are generally obtained from the local health department prior to drilling a well on a client’s property. Permits contain vital information about where the well must be placed on the property to avoid contamination sources, along with minimum well depths, minimum capacity, and other conditions. It’s not uncommon for registered well drilling contractors to notify state or county officials when they encounter unregistered, illegal competitors. When a new well drilling business starts up, other local drilling contractors may check up on the operation to see if the rig operator is registered. They also might check to see if proper well construction practices are followed. Unfair competition is unwelcome competition. Complying with state and local regulations and using ethical business practices helps foster good working relationships with others in the profession. The registered contractor must stay involved in day-to-day operations of the drilling business and should always supervise new or unregistered employees and partners. Since the registrant is responsible for all well code violations committed by un- registered partners, officers, or employees, the registrant should have supervisory control of the operation at all times. Plan to participate in continuing education activities and associations to help you keep up with current technology. Getting involved with trade organizations gives you countless networking opportunities; and reading industry publications is a good way to keep up to speed. Certain laws apply when starting any business. Useful information on business planning, management, and operation is available from state and local agencies, universities, community colleges, public libraries, as well as legal and financial consultants. An attorney, accountant, or business counselor can advise you on the appropriate type of business structure for your situation. Whether you’re purchasing an existing well drilling firm or starting a new one, be advised to consult with an attorney first. Think you have what it takes? Give it a shot! With determination, the challenges of owning your own business can be both rewarding and profitable. Don’t forget to check the “Business Opportunity” sec- tion in WWDR classifieds every month for exciting new possibilities! Thank you Michele, I enjoy the magazine and learn something new from every issue. You guys keep up the good work. Bests, CN Seattle Tunnel Partners Bothell, WA 52 MAY 2016 WorldWide Drilling Resource ®