Hurricane Recovery: Well & Septic Guidance

Update 10/15/2024: Henderson County Department of Public Health will begin providing well water sampling at no charge to our residents impacted by the storm. Please ensure the following steps are complete before requesting a well water sample: power has been restored, well has been disinfected, and the property/wellhead are accessible. We will collect well water samples as supplies and resources allow.

Damaged Wells and Septic Systems

North Carolinians who lost access to water through a private well or damaged septic system as a result of Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA assistance.

Well Water Testing

Well water testing will be provided at no charge for wells that were flooded or damaged. This testing is solely for determining the presence of coliform bacteria and E. coli in existing private drinking water wells following disinfection. 

More Information on Requesting a Water Sample

Post-flood well water samples can only be collected following performance of the recovery steps described in the How to Keep Wells Safe After Flood guidance.

Septic Tanks

• If your septic tank has been flooded do not use the plumbing system while the septic tank is still under water.
• Do not use your plumbing system if sewage water has backed up into your home.
• Try to reduce the amount of debris that enters the septic tank or drains.
• Avoid contact with sewage from a septic tank that is not operating.

For additional disaster recovery information, please visit the NCDHHS Disaster Recovery website.