Getting a private well back in service
Inspect the wellhead
Look for a damaged or missing well cap, debris around the casing, and erosion that exposed the casing or changed grading.
Have the pump and electrical checked
A licensed well or pump contractor or electrician should inspect submerged wiring and controls before power is restored.
Disinfect the system
Shock chlorination is the common approach. Follow guidance from Douglas County's environmental health agency or CDPHE, or have a well contractor do it.
Flush and test
After disinfection and flushing, collect a sample for bacteria testing through a certified lab. Ask the lab about nitrate testing too.
Retest later
A single good result is encouraging. Testing again after some time helps confirm the well stays clean.
What a flood does to a septic system
A septic system depends on the drain field soil being able to absorb and treat effluent. When the ground is saturated by floodwater, it cannot. Water may back up into the house through the lowest drains, or effluent may surface in the yard. Running laundry, dishwashers and long showers while the field is waterlogged makes it worse.
Reduce water use until the ground drains. Avoid driving equipment over the drain field, since saturated soil compacts easily and compaction can permanently reduce its capacity. Silt and debris can also enter the tank through damaged lids or risers. A septic professional can check the tank, baffles and lids once the water recedes, and pumping may be recommended, though not while the surrounding soil is still saturated, because an empty tank can shift in wet ground.
If sewage backed up into the house, that area becomes a sewage cleanup in addition to a flood cleanup, with stricter handling of every porous material it touched.
Questions for the county and contractors
- Which Douglas County office handles well and septic guidance after a flood, and do they offer test kits or lab referrals?
- Does septic repair or replacement after flood damage need a permit?
- Is the well cap the right type for a location that can flood, and should the casing be extended?
- Did erosion around the drain field change how it will perform?
Rural property checks after the water drains
General information for Castle Rock, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.