ON THIS PAGE

The Comprehensive Checklist for Drilling a Borehole in South Africa

The Comprehensive Checklist for Drilling a Borehole in South Africa

Discover everything you need to know before drilling a borehole—from permits to pump selection. Ensure a smooth, cost-effective, and sustainable water solution for your home or business.

LiquaFlo residential water storage <a href=tank with triple filter system installation in Johannesburg, providing clean borehole water supply">

Why Drill a Borehole?

With rising municipal water costs and unreliable supply, a borehole offers a sustainable, off-grid water solution. Whether for residential, commercial, or agricultural use, a well-constructed borehole provides:
 Independence from municipal water restrictions
 Lower utility bills with a long-term ROI
 Clean, natural water (with proper filtration)
 Increased property value

At LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions, we specialize in tailor-made water systems that meet SABS standards, ensuring quality and reliability.


Pre-Drilling Checklist

Before breaking ground, consider these essential steps:

1. Hydrogeological Survey

A professional survey determines:
🔹 Water table depth
🔹 Optimal drilling location
🔹 Expected yield (liters per hour)
🔹 Water quality (potential contaminants)

LiquaFlo partners with expert geosurveyors to assess viability before drilling.

2. Legal & Municipal Compliance

🔹 Permit requirements (varies by municipality)
🔹 Environmental impact assessment (if applicable)
🔹 SABS SANS 10299 compliance (ensures safe drilling practices)

3. Budgeting & Cost Factors

Borehole drilling costs depend on:
💰 Depth (R1,200 – R2,500 per meter)
💰 Rock hardness (softer soil = lower cost)
💰 Pump & filtration system (solar vs. electric)
💰 Additional infrastructure (tanks, piping, purification)

Residential borehole water storage tank with pump system installed by LiquaFlo, providing off-grid water solutions in Gauteng

Get a free quote from LiquaFlo for a transparent breakdown.


The Drilling Process

Once permits and surveys are complete:

1. Site Preparation

🔹 Clear access for drilling rig
🔹 Mark underground utilities (avoid pipes/cables)

2. Drilling & Casing Installation

🔹 Rotary drilling (most common in SA)
🔹 Steel/PVC casing prevents collapse & contamination

3. Yield & Water Quality Testing

🔹 Pump test determines sustainable yield
🔹 Lab analysis checks for minerals, bacteria, pH

4. Pump & System Installation

Choose between:
🔸 Submersible pumps (deep boreholes)
🔸 Surface pumps (shallow wells)
🔸 Solar-powered pumps (off-grid efficiency)

Complete residential water system with JoJo tank and dual blue filtration units installed by LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions in Gauteng

LiquaFlo supplies & installs SABS-approved pumps with warranties.


Post-Drilling Essentials

1. Filtration & Purification

🔹 Sediment filters (remove sand & grit)
🔹 UV sterilization (kills bacteria)
🔹 Reverse osmosis (for drinking water)

2. Storage & Distribution

🔹 Jojo tanks (10,000L – 20,000L recommended)
🔹 Pressure pumps ensure steady water flow

3. Maintenance Schedule

🔹 Annual inspections (pump, pipes, water quality)
🔹 Quarterly cleaning (prevent silt buildup)
Before and after transformation of borehole pump installation by LiquaFlo, showcasing professional water system upgrades

Ready to Drill Your Borehole?

At LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions, we handle drilling, pumps, filtration, and maintenance—all compliant with SABS standards.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation!

Borehole Drilling Cost Calculator

Customize Your Borehole

20m 120m
Estimated Total Cost: R0.00

Cost Breakdown

* Steel casing is calculated at 1/3 of the drilling depth

* Submersible cable is drilling depth + 15 meters

Request This Quotation

A consultant will contact you to discuss your specific requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should my borehole be?
Typically 30m–100m, depending on the water table. A hydro survey determines the ideal depth.
Is borehole water safe to drink?
Only after proper filtration & testing. We recommend lab analysis before consumption.
How long does drilling take?
1–3 days for drilling, plus 1–2 days for pump installation.
Can I drill anywhere on my property?
No—geosurveys identify the best location for optimal yield.
What’s the lifespan of a borehole?
15–30 years with proper maintenance.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, most municipalities require a water use license.