Irish Private Wells: What the EPA Warns and Advises

Irish Private Wells: What the EPA Warns and Advises

Informational only. Based on an EPA news release (15 January 2020, 2018 data) and a 2014 Engineers Journal article.

• The EPA says poorly constructed wells and weak monitoring of private supplies put health at risk. Contamination risk is high after heavy rain.
• Owners should get their supply tested regularly, especially after rainfall. Children and older adults are most at risk from E. coli.
• The 2014 article advises testing for microbiological contamination at least once a year, ideally after heavy rain, and checking for pollution sources near the well.
• It also says poorly built wells can let surface water in over the casing or down an ungrouted side. Where protection is not enough, consider treatment, with disinfection as a minimum.
• It mentions the EPA "Protect Your Well" web app and EPA Advice Note No. 14 (2013) on borehole construction.

Not verified: whether the 2014 figures and advice are still current, and the current local authority registration rules. We did not open the EPA app or Advice Note. Ask an accredited lab and your local authority.

General information only. Not plumbing, legal or code advice. Confirm with a licensed professional and your local authority.