Borehole drilling costs: what are you actually paying for?

Why there is no single borehole price

Ground conditions, final depth, access and completion design vary from site to site. Distance affects rig transport, and casing requirements can change as drilling progresses. A headline per-metre rate should not be treated as the price of a fully working water supply. This guide describes common charging structures, not Private Power Solar's published rates.

The line items to look for

Ask for a written quote that separates the stages and explains any exclusions.

• Site assessment or survey and rig mobilisation.
• Drilling rate, planned depth and approval for extra metres.
• Casing, screens and gravel packing where required.
• Development, pumping tests and laboratory water analysis.
• Pump, controller, electrical supply, pipework and installation.
• Tank, stand, site reinstatement and applicable taxes.

Understand the charging model

A per-metre quote is usually based on the depth drilled, with other work priced separately or included to stated limits. A package quote may cover a specified depth and equipment specification. Compare the same scope, not just the lowest figure. Ask whether casing is charged per installed metre, what happens if the planned depth is exceeded and whether difficult formations change the rate.

Agree what happens if the hole is dry

Groundwater is uncertain. Confirm what is payable for a dry or low-yield hole, whether relocation is a separate charge, and who authorises continued drilling. Do not assume that a water survey, package price or deposit includes a water guarantee. Keep the agreed terms in writing.

Prepare for a meaningful quote

Share the site location, access conditions, intended water use, existing records and whether you need only drilling or a complete pump-and-storage installation. Request the currency, quote validity, payment stages and tax treatment in writing. A site-specific assessment is needed before a dependable price can be given.