If you’ve been thinking about installing a borehole at home, you’re definitely not alone. With rising municipal water tariffs, unreliable supply, and a growing need for sustainable water solutions, more South African homeowners are turning to boreholes as an investment — not just a convenience.
But the big question everyone wants answered is: “How much does a borehole actually cost in South Africa?”
The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all price. Borehole drilling costs depend on several factors — but once you understand the breakdown, it becomes much easier to budget and avoid surprises. Below, we unpack the real costs and show you how LiquaFlo helps keep the process transparent, reliable, and tailored to your needs.
1. The Biggest Factor: Drilling Depth
This is the part of borehole pricing that matters most.
Drilling companies (including LiquaFlo’s subcontracted teams who follow SABS SANS 10299-:2003 standards) typically charge per metre drilled. The depth required depends on your area’s underground water levels — which is why a geo-survey is always step one.
Average drilling cost in SA:
➡️ R600 – R1,500 per metre
Typical depths range from 30m to 120m depending on the region.
So yes, two houses in the same suburb can have very different costs simply because their water tables differ.
2. Casing, Lining & Borehole Construction
Casing keeps your borehole stable and protected from collapsing. Different soil conditions require different casing thickness and materials.
Estimated cost:
➡️ R5,000 – R20,000 depending on depth, soil type, and casing material.
This is not a corner you want anyone to cut — and LiquaFlo only uses SABS-approved materials for long-term safety.
3. Pump System Costs
Once water is found, you still need a way to bring it to the surface.
The pump you’ll need depends on depth, water volume, and your usage (household, garden, or agricultural).
General pump cost ranges:
- Standard submersible pump: R4,000 – R18,000
- Solar-powered borehole pumps: R12,000 – R40,000+
- Pressure pumps & controllers: R1,200 – R6,000
LiquaFlo supplies a full range of pumps and accessories — all SABS approved, warrantied, and installed correctly for your borehole’s specifications.
4. Water Storage: Tanks & Stands
Most homeowners choose to add a tank system so they always have stored water on hand.
Pricing guide:
- 2,500L–5,000L tank: R2,000 – R7,500
- Tank stand or concrete slab: R1,500 – R4,000
- Plumbing & connections: R1,000 – R4,000
LiquaFlo installs tanks and integrates them perfectly with your borehole and household supply.
5. Water Purification & Filtration (Optional but Common)
Even though borehole water is often high quality, filtration is recommended for household use—especially drinking water.
Typical filtration costs:
- Basic sediment filter: R1,200 – R2,500
- Iron/Manganese removal systems: R3,000 – R10,000
- Full purification systems: R6,000 – R20,000+
LiquaFlo builds custom purification setups based on your water quality and intended use.
6. Additional Costs Homeowners Often Forget
A few extras may influence your final budget:
- Electrical connections
- Borehole yield testing
- Pump protection devices
- Trenching for pipes
- Maintenance or flushing for older boreholes
LiquaFlo provides transparent quotes so you’re never caught off guard by hidden costs.
So, What’s the Average Cost of a Borehole in South Africa?
Here’s a realistic range most homeowners fall into:
💧 Total borehole cost in SA:
👉 R25,000 – R120,000+
It all depends on depth, pump choice, filtration needs, and usage.
A basic “water-for-the-garden” borehole will be much cheaper than a fully integrated household system with purification and storage.
Why Choose LiquaFlo for Your Borehole Installation?
LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions offers homeowners something that’s often rare in the industry: complete transparency, honest guidance, and tailor-made systems.
Here’s what sets us apart:
✔ SABS-approved products and standards
✔ Geo-survey assistance to avoid unnecessary drilling
✔ Trusted subcontracted drillers operating to SANS 10299 standards
✔ Custom pump, filtration, and off-grid water solutions
✔ Full installation, upgrades, repairs, and maintenance
✔ A parts shop that ships pumps and accessories across South Africa
✔ Decades of combined experience with real technical expertise
Our goal is simple: give you full control over your water supply at a price that makes sense — without cutting corners.
Final Thoughts
A borehole is one of the most valuable long-term investments a homeowner can make in South Africa. With the right team guiding you, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for, what affects the cost, and how to plan your budget properly.
If you're ready to explore your options or need a personalised quote, LiquaFlo is here to help.