Date: Tue, 19 Jul 2011 09:32:42 -0400
From: Jane Dunlap
Subject: Shared well: fair use charge?
I own the property where the well is located and share it now with 2 houses, one with 3 occupants (couple and baby) and another with 4 (couple and 2 children). My use is for 1 occupant, small garden. One of the sharers is also planning to add livestock: 2 to 3 horses, a few goats, and a large garden. This
is a significant change from when the original well agreement was drawn for $50/year for 1 house with 2 occupants. The well is rated at 25gpm and has a single 250 gallon holding tank. I cannot determine the HP of the pump, but it was installed approximately 20 years ago if that helps.
The purpose of the yearly fee in the agreement is to cover charges for electricity used by the pump and simple maintenance (well house, 220 volt light bulb in winter, and occasional filter change).
I’m hoping there are folks in Chatham with similar situations who can advise (other than putting a separate electric meter on the pump, which I’ve already determined is not cost effective).
Thanks!
— Jane